Way to go Nicanor !, I was saying he will go this weekend in either the 7F race or 7 1/2F race, but I don't know now that he worked this morning, I will have to look at the following weekend's races at Gulfstream !, Maybe He will race on His Birthday !(Sunday 03.15.09)

Way to go Nicanor!  His workout buddy, Hennigan, posted the exact same work.  Could another racing attempt be on the near horizon?

Go Nicanor.  Good Job!  We all love you and most of all stay safe.  

Thanks Amanda.  Now will you please put up the article about the new baby being born LOL.   :)

You certainly want them to move forward on their works. They are just works however but he seems to be going in the right direction and it will be interesting to watch his second start. Hopefully he'll break better but sometimes that takes them a few starts to figure out.

Woo Hoo Nicky!  Do we see a race in the near future?

Atta boy!

Way to go Nicky!  We all knew you had it in you. Keep up the good work.

Nicely done Nic!!!

Do we have any idea if they're gonna race him soon, or when the what race he'll be in? Thanks.

Good luck Nic.

It's just great to see the fella back on track.  Awaiting his next race with wishes of victory, just cant wait...He is georgous...

I guess I can cancel my plans for Florida this weekend. LOL

But whoohoo on a great work. .

Amanda, where is LaVille's blog area???  Does this mean she has delivered????  Sure hope so and hope its a girl......

I heard somebody say something about a turf race on the 7th going long, and MM didn't say no to it, so mabe that one.

Good job Nic! I see they're pushing him, no, that would be NIC pushing his workouts up! :-) If Marigold is correct, maybe they're putting him through test with how he reacts to pressure from another horse alongside?

yippie!!!!! nicky, sweetheart, we are all so proud of you! stay safe and sweet darling!! ANY news on babynor? we are anxious horsey godparents!

Thanks for the update--looks like he's progressing nicely.

Atta boy Nicanor! Just keep gaining speed!

Ragsy I put up some more stuff for LVR.  I know that the SECOND Amanda gets news, it will be on here.  Pins and needles I am on..  Come on MOM!!!!!  SAFE HEALTHY 3rd brother to our beautiful Barbaro. WOW.  This is good.  :)

Great job Nicanor. Just keep up the good work. I look forward to seeing you in your next race.

Love Alex from Winnipeg Manitoba Canada. :)

la ville rouge, beautiful one, you and babynor can come and recover in my barn. love you !

Show them what you've got Nicanor !

Keep it up, boy !

The name will be one of three...Sereno, Calypso, or Margano.

fantastic workout im so glad to see he's doing well1:) when is his next race?

I believe Nicnors next race will be a lot better than his first. Sure seems like he is coming along nicely. Can't wait to hear news of his next start. Thanks for the info on his recent work. Has any one heard anything new on Lentenor? Curious to know how our other boy is doing.

The new baby's name should be Margano. He is the next foxhound in line in the picture. I think the Jacksons have been naming in order from left to right.  Barbaro was the first one, Nicanor the second and Lentenor the third. So that should leave Margano number four.

DerbyFan  I think Donna is right.  It will be the name next to Lenntenor.  We still have two left for the fillies :)  THEN the Foxhound picture will be complete.   By that time, racing will be much different too.  We may even have a cure for that dreadful L.  I think that this is all one big plan.  5 babies is enough time to finish Barbaro's 7th race.  :)

We love you Barbaro, Nicanor, Lenntenor, Babynor, LVD and Dynaformer and all the rest of you that are connections and Fans of Barbaro.  

Donna I know that Margano is next on the list but do you think that maybe that would be a better name for the filly?  The one that isn't conceived yet.  :)  I don't know.  Only Roy and Gretchin do and they will announce things at the most special times.  They are awesome.  

Can't wait!  For beautiful Nicanor's next race and for the arrival of Babynor and some more news about the spectacular Lentenor.  All good!

his next start will tell us if the first race was a fluke.Good to see his workout times are improving.the pressure will be on.Dig deep Nicanor show some heart this time.

WOW picking up the pace huh? Thats great to hear! This will just make him a better race horse when it comes time to race! Can't wait to see him hit the track again. Hopefully soon! WTG Nicanor! I'm cheering for ya!

"2 time valley,.."

thanks for the positive post!

Nicanor will be just fine. When he races will depend on Peter's evaluation that Nic is ready. How he galloped out, after the 4 furlong breeze will determine if he races this weekend or next. GO NIC GO...HE RUNS BIG NEXT RACE.

Nice workout, moving forward. With no trouble in his next race, maybe he will put in a good performance. Some body in this family needs to win the Preakness and Belmont for Barbaro.

I posted on another blog yesterday that Nicanor will win his next race.

Listen, it is in the nature of all animals, including human beings, that when he has suffered an injury or fears that injury is imminent, he will stay for the fight or give up.  In Nicanor's case, he fought.  He roared down the track and fought his rider all the way.  

He injured himself coming out of the gate and a couple of horses bumped him; so of course Nicanor was looking for a fight.  Perhaps he was looking for the horse or horses that bumped him.  LOL.  

Another second off that workout, and he is good to go; he will be right up there with Old Fashioned.

Wait a second , That cannot be "2 Timer", A positive post about Nicanor?, Must be an imposter, lol, Just Kidding "2 Timer"....

Pretty sure it was Nicanor who bumped the AP Indy colt to his inside.  Curious to see if he will once again be bet down.

How About The Budweiser Clydesdales For The Bouncers?, I believe they could take care of any unruly guests !

Let me also say this.  Barbaro stayed for the fight.  Even though he was unable to continue his   journey down the road to the Triple Crown, he fought for his life.  And because he fought, veterinarians will not give up.   Barbaro was a great horse.

Stardust, I do think Margano would be a cool name for a filly. Hopefully the Jacksons will get one. I also think Calypso would be neat if no one is already named that.

no imposter, just stating my honest opinion.Just because you don't like someone's opinion doesn't make it negative opinion.I still wouldn't bet him, you can.

Barbaro was the foxhound on the far right, not left. Margano is the next name in line.

Amanda, is it true that LVR is in the Foaling Barn?  That rumor is circulating.

Hey Mary, 1 second is approx 5 lengths and until he shows something much better his next race,no way can you compare him to Old Fashion, or any other top 3 year old.If he's bet down again, they are fools or don't care if they lose money.

Amanda, is it true that LVR is in the Foaling Barn?  That rumor is circulating.

2Timer, nice post.  Come back anytime.

Nicky-Knocks W/O was great to see that he is progressing.  If he runs I will bet but still feel he is a few more races away from putting it all together.  Go Nic and I would so love for you to have me eat my prior words. Am still waiting patiently for word on the new brother, sure hope it is soon.

Go Nicanor!  I think this is his fastest work.

2 time valley

I second that!  Good post.  

I am very impressed with this workout it seems that every time that he has a workout he seems to get a lot faster. I think this is showing that Nicanor now knows what is expected of him.  I am just very happy with him.  Can't wait for his next race I just know that he is going wow us.  Thanks Amanda for the update.

The next foal cannot be named Sereno or Calypso, as those names are already in use by other Thoroughbreds.

Steady as she goes Nicanor! It's a great feeling getting stronger every day. Yay!

I look at Nicanors race this way.  As long as he has a clean ride and is sound after the wire on four strong legs, I could care less.  Do I want him to win?  Yeah that would be wonderful.  Do I think any less of him if he doesn't?  Heck no.  He is Nicanor and that is all he needs to be.  I don't bet so that part doesn't matter.  I just want him to be safe and sound.  He has got the perfect connections to remain that way. :)

Well all I can say with horse racing is this.  There are very fast and good horses and there are long shots.  Who in a million years would have thought Da Tara would have won the Belmont?  BB was a very good horse.  Oh and Babaro.  We were on our way to a TC winner there.  I say this.  The race is not over until it is over.  That means when the wire is crossed.  Sadly and too often, horses get hurt OR pullied up OR scratched before they make it to that place.  

The best horses may not make it to the Derby or win the Derby for a variety of reasons.  Who EVER wins the race on any race, it counts once!  On THAT day, on THAT track, accross THAT wire.  Nothing more, nothing less.  Horses have good days and bad days.  All of them do.  :)

Please don't tell me that Sereno and Calypso are on that foxhound picture.  :(

Easy does it, way to bring him along slowly. I could care less if he ever races again, this one needs to live a long and healthy life!!! Who else agree's?

Mel

I agree as well as all of Barbaros brothers, sisters and family.  :)

Thank you Amanda for the update and a big thank you to the Michael Matz barn. Mr Matz and his staff are doing great with this horse and bringing him along slow, but sure seems to be paying off. He has steadily improved, his times indicate that. This is great news. I think maybe one or two more good workouts and he'll be off and running. I'm just hoping and guessing, of course.  I know they won't bring him back to race until he's a 100% and that's more than okay with me. Three cheers all around!!  Nicanor is improving, Lentenor is learning and LVR is about to do her thing!  Good luck Mama, make your family proud but most of all, stay safe and healthy.

Yeah I second that Dona.  Thank You Amanda for all you are doing.  It is great to be part of the Barbaro family and for MM and the Jacksons to so graciously let us be part of these horses lives is almost un heard of in the racing industry.  It is so way cool.  Love the family and we all miss you big guy.

Barbaro is the best.  Simply the BEST!  

I have my fingers, toes, ears and teeth crossed...oh wait, Nicanor doesn't need any luck, he has what it takes and will do fine. I'll will be on Saturday.

You'll do just fine.

ALRIGHT Nicanor !, Hope he has a Safe Trip ! 7F is perfect for his second race !, Man, I actually called that, GO Nicanor.....Jose is a good call, He is doing about the same as Edgar in Current meet at Gulfstream, A few more starts, Same amount of wins, He has actually raced the most there in current season, which is good, He knows the track well, All you Naysayers out there, Just watch This Race !

Oh my.  Saturday is a day off now.  I have everything crossed and I hope for a win but I really only want this beautiful horse to go back to the barn on four legs.  With Edgar, that will be no problem.  :)  Go Nicanor.  You are getting better.  After all this is your race, your game and you speed and your wonderful trainer is not pushing you.  Hats off to MM!

Come on NICANOR win win win and win the Triple Crown and keep winning and tell your mom to have your brother or sister we want a bundle of fun called cutness.

YES !!!! Good luck Nic and Jose!

post 9, maybe he won't feel so crowded this time and really break well!

Prado is in NY, and obviously wasn't going to dismiss the Gotham to ride a MSW at GP.

He's obviously VERY willing to potentially lose the mount on Nicanor, be it for one race, or in the future. That's VERY telling, if you're familiar with racing.

But it's also quite possible he could get the ride back when he IS available, it's just that this weekend isn't it. But, he was certainly willing to take the "risk" to ride for more money elsewhere, on a more likely in the money mount.

Just an FYI, and I am not trying to upset the delicate feelings of the FOBS... it's just that this wasn't some "smart move" by the connections, it was simply Prado was not, and did make himself available to ride this race.

Watching, I'll be watching on Saturday.

Here are the Nine TB's He will Face and Beat...1.Discreet Street, 2. Lamm, 3.Big Top, 4.Dubinsky, 5.Noah's Arch, 6.Boots Ahead, 7.Bear's Prospector, 8.Woodford Manhattan, 10.Custom for Carlos. I don't see Edgar Prado on Card , So I believe he is racing somewhere else that day?, If any one knows if The Jackson's switched due to him being somewhere else or they just wanted to go with a new jockey?, Anyways, I have a great feeling about this race for Nicanor, Just Be Safe....

Lezcano's stats:

Currently 5th leading rider over-all at GP, with 29 wins (a 13% win percentage) and current earnings of slightly over $900k.

Well, Nic didn't draw the best post, but maybe we'll get a scratch (or two) and he'll move up.  He will be up against Dubinsky again, and Bear's Prospector is in there too-- those are two nice horses.  Glad for the shorter distance, and jockey change.  Not real familiar with Lezcano's riding style, hopefully he will be patient with Nic and won't try to fight him.  Have a better trip this time Nic... just have fun, and BE SAFE!

Thanks Mymigraine for info on Edgar, Don't blame him, Gotham should be a good race, I like Axel Foley then I want revenge, But we shall see....

Greg J

Trust me, I am NOT blaming Edgar. VERY smart move on his part.

Edgar will be in CA riding Einstein in the one-million dollar Big Cap Saturday... who can blame him!

Ok now its showtime again for Nic , lets see what he has and I hope there will be no excuses this time like different jockey, etc.Pressure is on-don't quit!

Sucker bet!

Greg J, so you have a great feeling for this race, the same as his Debut? So he's going to beat all those horses -I doubt it.

... sorry, not Einstein... he rides Monba for Pletcher.  Looks like Santa Anita is THE place to be saturday.  Check out the card!

I think Lezcano rode Barbaro as a two year old. M. Matz knows his abilities well. I can't wait for this race!

MyMigraine, NO, I meant I don't blame Edgar for racing in Gotham, Sorry about that...

He won't win, so be prepared.

I was incorrect regarding Prado being in NY this weekend.

That said, Becrux is not entered in the SA 'Cap, helsbelles, he's in the Kilroe, but Prado does have the ride.

Prado will be aboard Monba in the SA 'Cap.

In Barbaro's first two starts he was written by J C Caraballo. After that, it was Prado the remainder of his career.

2 Timer, It really is a shame , I thought there was hope for you, You actually left a decent post about Nicanor for the first time, Now, You are back to being Mr. Negative, WHY do you you even come to this Blog, Can you answer that ? Your true colors are coming out....I will make a deal with you, If Nicanor Wins, You promise Never to make a comment on this blog again, Deal ?

Greg J

Give it up.  2 time is a troll IMO and probably eveyone elses.  I don't mind Jose riding Nicanor.  

Nicanor.  Just take your time and run at your own pace.  Remember you are the horse.  I am not really very happy about this but Oh well.  We shall see.

As for the excuses they already have one. Prado is not riding.  That is good enough for me.  

Anyone that wants to fist fight over this, I am ready!  LOL

CurlinxTwo--Yeah, thanks, you're correct about Caraballo. I was actually remembering Lezcano on Chelokee last March for Matz.

Greg J...

I am not defending anyone here, per se,  but I am curious...why can't "2 timer" share HIS opinion?

This may be a blog about Nicanor, but nowhere does it state it's ONLY for those who LOVE Nicanor.

If that's 2 Timer's opinion, why isn't he entitled to think it AND post it? Especially here, ON the Nicanor blog.

The Nicanor FANS are far worse about trying to control this blog, and telling others what they are "allowed" to say here, than anyone who posts an opposing opinion to your's, if you ask me.

No, that doesn't mean people have to get nasty about it, but in reading 2 Timer's posts above regarding the Saturday race, he merely states the horse won't win, as far as he/she is concerned. I don't see anything negative, it merely contradicts what YOU (and some others) think.

Brace yourself, but I happen to agree with 2 Timers opinion, but just because I say a horse won't win a race (IMO)...that doesn't mean it's negative, or mean-spirited, it's just an opinion.

You can't expect everyone to love Nicanor, or be all that high on him after that debut. Horse race people know what they see.

Maybe Nicanor will lose, maybe he won't, but until then, EVERYONE is entitled to their opinion on it, and entitled to post it on a public forum, if they choose.

Just my .02

I do not blame Edgar Prado one bit for not being on Nicanor Saturday. I'm sure he was alreadt comitted to ride other horses well in advance this coming weedend. Seeing how we just learned recently of Nic. racing Saturday it certainly wasn't planned in advance so Edgar could ride him.

Good luck to Nicanor this weekend, I will be glued to the t.v. watching him and all the other stakes races this weekend. Above all else good luck and be safe Nicanor.

Oh boy, here we go. Yeah Nicky! Have fun and do your best. Jose Lezcano rides Lael horses on a regular basis for Michael Matz and Barclay Tagg, with Edgar here this Saurday, it's not a surprise that Jose has the mount on Nicanor. Win or lose, not that I think that wil happen, let's hope he's safe, has fun and wants to do it again. You know, a maiden win Saturday would still leave time for a stakes race in early April.  Or How about the Arkansas Derby? I know, I know, but I can dream can't I! Why live on if you can't dream for tomorrow?  Go Nicky, run with a tail wind at your back and oh yeah, hang on Jose! Hang on!  

I don't think MM would put ANYONE on that horse that he felt bad about.  I trust him fully.  

MyMigraine

You and 2 Timer are both anti Nicanor trolls IMO that don't even like the horse.  Why are you even here?  The Internet is huge.  There are blogs where you can talk about the horses you love.  I and most FOB's don't go to other blogs and put down their horses.  That is not cool.  This blog is Nicanor's blog and he needs positive vibes.  Not either of you give that to him.  You both IMO can't stand that horse because he is has something that 'no other' horse has and that is a huge family that loves and respects him. :)

I think 2Timer is secretly a fan and that's why he comes here but to save face, he assumes the role of a troll.

Then, if Nicanor winds a race, he will be shouting that it was a fluke and yata yata yata.  Secretly, he likes Nicanor and is hoping for his success.

But seriously, when I saw that it would NOT be Edgar aboard Nicanor, my heart lept in my throat.  Would Jose have ridden him beforehand as Edgar did? How do they know how to handle the horse if they haven't  ridden them beforehand?  So much anxiety!

Marigold

That is why I said what I did about MM.  I don't think he would put a jockey on Nicanor that he didn't trust completely.  I went through the same thing.  Sratch the race.  No Edgar, no race.  But then I thought about this and thought of MM and calmed down.  He is the best.  :)

Dona

I am relieved at reading your post.  Thanks.  

MyMigraine, I respect your comments, I am not naive, I know there is a good chance nicanor might not win, and I respect most comments on this blog for better or worse, I have learned alot from experienced horse people on this blog, BUT when somebody comes here to say incredibly crazy things i.e.(Nicanor wasn't hurt, He didn't grab his quarter, Prado was lying, Owners were pressured to get Nicanor to track, Matz is lying, Etc.). Well then Yes, It is  mean-spirited in nature, Of course anyone can blog here, but when your only reason is to cast negative remarks that cannot possibly be a sane person's opinion, Then I believe this is the wrong place for someone to come. When Brettzky99 writes, he doesn't always write 100 percent positive remarks about Nicanor BUT they are intelligent, concise, and to the point, and make alot of sense, that is just one example, Do me a favor , Go back and read some remarks by 2timer, if then you think I am wrong, then so be it, But this person isn't just stating his opinion, What he writes cannot be taken seriously, and it is beyond me, That a site that is for Barbaro's family and connections, someone would come here for no other reason then what I stated.....

Does anyone know why Edgar Prado isn't riding Nicky???

Stardust...

Thank you for proving my point, beautifully.

This has NOTHING to do with not liking Nicanor. Or vice versa.

Allow me an example. I have followed Becrux since his first race in the U.S., back in 2005. I LOVE him.

I also think he has little to no chance to win on Saturday in the Kilroe. I also watch "cheap claimers" who are strung out all over this country, perhaps 1/2 siblings to horses I liked, or maybe just a name caught me, or whatever the reason may be. These horses couldn't win against elephants, but I still enjoy them and watch and at least HOPE they run better the next time, than the many times before.

I am a RACE (and racehorse) fan, first and foremost. I am also a realist. I was at GP for Nicanor's debut. It was not a good one. He was not "severely injured", the proof is in that he was back on the track at Palm Meadows two DAYS later. He was VERY rank, HE rushed (Prado did not push) and he quit. That WAS the race, like it or not.

A Dynaformer, on the dirt, running at a mile or less. Also not a ringing endorsement to bet the farm.

So no, I am not blinded by the fact that it's Nicanor, Barbaro's brother, the horse who's birthright is he can do no wrong, apparently.

I am looking at him as a RACEHORSE, and assessing him accordingly, based on my own opinion, and 30 some odd years of KNOWLEDGE.

Are you aware he's racing against a horse Saturday, who while also didn't win in the same race Nicanor debuted in, still finished in upwards of 15+ lengths in front of Nicanor that day? Do you know how to handicap a race and read past performances, and UNDERSTAND them? There are horses in this field who on PAPER, look FAR superior to Nicanor's lone race, and taking anything else into consideration one needs to handicap a race.

Does that guarantee a loss by Nicanor? Of course not. But by virtue of his geneology and his birth, does not guarantee a win, either.

The long and the short of it, is that because I say, or anyone else says, they don't feel Nicanor will win Saturday, is not some death threat against the horse. It's an OPINION. It merely contradicts with yours, and gets you whipped into a frenzy over NOTHING.

If I am wrong after the 8th at GP on Saturday, I promise you I will come back here Saturday evening and post as much. But what if I'm right?

YOU have already given the horse an excuse, with Prado not being aboard. So you're already covering your own bases. At least I am basing my opinion on something a little more grounded in reality.

And not ONCE was I mean or nasty or ill-willed about it, but around here, if you disagree with an FOB...you're a villian.

Greg J....

Fair enough, and I honestly don't have a desire to go filter through past posts. I was merely commenting on the two I saw from "2 timer" regarding Saturday's race, and they were not "negative", IMO, the way some seem to take the posts that say Nicanor might actually lose. It's ok to have an opposing opinion.

There will always be those that want to stir the pot, totally agree with you there.

But those types are better left ignored, if they bother people that much, don't ya think? ;)

Greg J, only if you agree to never post again when he LOSES.Apparently your judge and jury of this blog when it comes to giving a opinion you don't like[your claim of negative], this is America pal freedom of speech and all opinions welcomed even your daydream great feeling he is going to win. MyMigraine had it right you want to deny anyone's opinion who doesn't agree with you and ban them from being posted So i'll leave if he wins what about backing up your great feeling and leave this blog when he LOSES?time to back up your words he's going to win?Do  you have the confidence to back up your great feeling? I doubt it but lets see if you take the challenge. Stardust your a groupie worshipper of a horse who just because had a famous brother thinks he is the greatest horse on earth. Yea  a excuse already new jockey you apparently have no confidence like your pal Greg J.Give me and every person freedom of speech which the moderator of this blog believes in.

Well MyMigraine, let me help you out if you can't understand why Greg and the FOBS would be a little taken back by 2timers comments. In the 3:33pm comments he/she/they/it started out fine but then (Greg You're right) the true colors came through. "pressure is on don't quit" and sucker bet! that's not an opinion, that's a statement meant to arouse some sort of response. I may be wrong, but I believe the only positive entry made by 2timer was pointed out by Greg. All the entries are negative and incendiary. If that's the objective, yeah, it burns people up. Why 2timer feels the need to be on this blog is a complete mystery. Maybe this is the only place or way to get attention.  How about yourself, saying Prado not being on Nicanor is very telling if you're familiar with racing. Not very subtle and very condescending!! 1st - Prado was committed this week-end and has been since the entry deadline for this weeks stake races. 2 - Prado not being available was just a matter of timing and scheduling, happens all the time.  Expressing your opinion? Yeah, we know how that goes, some of us are pretty good at "expressing" our opinions also, complete with sarcasm, nescient ramblings and inane commentary. oooh, I think I just expressed an opinion.

Thanks for the update and letting us know that Nicanor will be racing on Saturday.  I will be looking forward to watching him run and hoping he will win, or at least gain some more from the experience and finally, come home safely.  Thank you!

Devora, Edgar is committed to riding races in California Saturday. They have a big stakes card going at Santa Anita. Most of the top jocks are riding there. Even Ramon Damiquez who rides Haynefield has turned him over to another jockey for the Gotham so he can be at S.A. Saturday.

Good Luck Team Nicanor!

Devora,

Edgar Prado had a prior commitment in CA according to blogs.phillyburbs.com/.../nicanor-to-run-saturday

Greg J, so now I'm insane- your a shrink too , that's very interesting . So I'm mean spirited for giving my opinion because you don't like what I say .Where does it say that this blog is for only Barbaro family and connections and how are you connected? The blog moderator doesn't agree with your dictatorship .So are you going to take the challenge the loser leaves the blog after all you made a bold prediction that he would beat all those other horses and win-I disagree!Hey Mymigraine , your accused of being negative because you exercised your right of freedom of speech.They are scare he'll quit again and are climbing the walls over our opinions.Can you believe people get so uptight when they read something they don't like, what do they do when there is a real crisis in their life?I find this so funny.

Hey Greg j , are you going to take 2 times  challenge or not?your turn to respond.

Its such a shame to see this blog turn into people criticizing one another. I think we should all be able to share our opinions without reproof.

I loved Barbaro and his great heart.  So his little brother is a 'person' of interest.  I wish him well.  But we all know it sometimes takes several races for the colt or filly to get the proper feel of things.  Some never do.  My friend, Whirlaway, didn't run well til he wore blinkers.  Always pulling out to the right.

But Mr. Longtail always gave us a thrill when he started rolling up from last place. Maybe Nicky needs a longer race.

I still wish him well this Saturday.

Am excited....Nicky is running 7F race 8 on 3/7.  Go Nicky Knocks.

Come on 2 timesr, that was a stupid comment.  Nicanor doesn't "think he is the greatest horse on earth."  Nicanor is a horse, period. And, I think that is probably all he thinks he is.

We love him, for himself now, NOT because he is Barbro's brother.  We've fallen in love with a beautiful, sweet animal, who is himself and who has tried to do everything asked of him.  Give it a break, 2 Timer.  You are entitled to your own opinion, and we are entitled to ours and entitled to express it.  Nicanor does NOT think he is the greatest horse on earth because he had a famous broher.  That was just a DUMB thing to say.  

I've taken an interest in this horse because of his breeding but there are others in that race on Saturday that look better on paper. Bear's Prospector ran second to Saratoga Sinner after a troubled trip and Saratoga Sinner went on to win the Holy Bull. Sorry guys I have to go with Bear's Prospector with my home boy Jimmy Mac in the irons!

Good Luck Nicanor!!!

Marigold,

I bet the rider who will be riding him was up on him for his most recent breeze and possibly the one before.

Stakes races are published by the track at the beginning of the year--that is except for the overnight stakes races which come out in the condition book.

A condition book is a book listing all the possible races that the racing secretary has written for the current racing period, which is usually something like three weeks.  A trainer doesn't know if a race will come up for his horses until the condition book comes out.  Races, except stakes races, are entered just a few days before the race, which is why no one knew Nicanor would run until today.  Sometimes races over fill and you can't get your horse into a race you wanted.

Trainers usually have a jockey lined up for an upcoming race well before the entries are taken.  The rider for a stakes race tends to be lined up much further ahead of time.  Sometimes the rider has two promising horses and has to make a decision of which one to ride.    Sometimes s/he chooses the horse s/he feels is most likely to win, sometimes the rider chooses the horse whose connections are most likely to give him the best horses in the future.  Bottom line, it is always a decision the jockey feels will benefit him, the rider, the most.

I wish the die-hard Nicanor fans would be tolerant for those that post their feelings that Nicanor isn't the second coming of Secretariat.  I truly wish that Nicanor was.  It would be good for racing, and I have a vested interest in the sport of horseracing as a breeder and a racehorse owner.  Those that don't expect to see much from Nicanor on Saturday--myself included--have some pretty valid reasons for feeling that way.  Just because we might feel that way, doesn't mean we don't wish to be proven wrong.

Nicanor will win this one.  No horse that injures himself coming out of the gate is going to win the race; I don't care how slight the injury is.  

2 Time and MyMigraine  

Please stop saying bad things about these beautiful horses and connections.  Are you guys so bored that you have to resort this low for something to do?  Come on this is a blog for the FOB's not Trolls that don't like them.  

We love you Nicanor......Lentenor, Barbaro, LVD, Dynaformer, Roy & Grethen, Michael, Edgar, Peter, Alex, Amanda and all of the other TRUE Fans of Bararo which lies in the millions of people.  :)

OMG, this is crazy. Yes, this is America and everyone is entitled to his/her opinion. I am a Nicanor fan and would love to see him win on Saturday, but not everyone has to feel the same way. Can't we listen to others opinions?

Hey 2 time, the worst groupie worshippers are the fanatics who follow every single one of Smarty Jones' progeny - and make excuses when they lose!  

I just want a safe race.

I am a groupie worshipper?  I loved Barbaro ever since he was a little guy.  I went through everything with him as all of us did.  We TRACK HIS BROTHERS.  Thousands of us do.  We are a very strong group that have done a lot for ALL of the horses.  

Ask Gretchen Jackson what she thinks of the FOB's?  Ask MM?  Ask Edgar.  Ask anyone that is a Barbaro fan and that is a hell of a lot of people.  WE GET IT!.  

 I CARE about the horses and want them safe! I don't bet and I don't give a damn whether Nicanor wins, loses or scratches.  I love the BARBARO family for who they are and what we are.  We represent a lot of horses.  We have saved a lot of horses. We have been talking to reps and senators all the time to help the horses.  WE love the horses.  

We are FOB's and this is "TRACKING BARBARO'S BROTHERS" BLOG.  OK now on a positive note....

Jose good luck on Nicanor Saturday.  Edgar you are in the doghouse with me LOL but I still love ya.  Hope for a safe race.  As long as he goes back to the barn on 4 legs, that is all that matters to me.  :)

Win of Lose, I have followed Nicanor since he was born. I will be at Gulfstream to cheer him on to a healthy race.

2 time valley.

We don't THINK that Barbaro was the greatest horse on Earth.  We KNOW he was.  :)  Most of us anyway.  He was one hell of a fighter and never ever gave up.  No horse has EVER done that!

Is it getting hot in here or is it me?  I think that everyone is getting a little over excited about opinions, wishes and desires.  We are projecting our own feelings onto a horse that only desires to run and hopefully be at the front of the herd.  I am a big fan of Nicanor.  I am a big fan of racing.  I appreciate all the comments(positive and not so positive) made in this blog.  I don't always agree with them though(positive and not so positive).  I recognize the reality of Nicanor's last effort and I still am going to root for him at GP on Saturday.  I thank everyone else for posting their opinions because each and every one of those opinions is what makes this blog work.  Like it or not.  May Nicanor have a good race and learn some more.  I am hoping that he does better than the last time.  He is a good horse and deserves a shot at winning.  Let's hope that he learned enough the last time and grew into his body so as to run more smoothly.  Let him finish the race safely.  That is what everyone on this blog wants.

Okay everybody, Nicanor is going to win this one, end of story.  Peter Brette said a few weeks ago that they are "over the moon with him".  Read the articles.  MM is thrilled to have Nicanor in his barn.  Nicanor is a great horse.  

Nicanor looks to be improving, and a step down in distance ought to help his chances. I would never, however, want him to be like Barbaro, who fractured his leg before the Preakness, and then broke it during the race. I can't imagine wishing that Nicanor could be like a horse who wasn't sound.

This chatter reminds me of the Curlin obsession people have. The great Curlin, who lost to Rags to Riches and a few times after that. At some point, the mythology becomes fact for people. Just hope that Nicanor wins, and stop worrying whether he will be like Barbaro, whose demise could have been prevented had he been scratched immediately from the Preakness. He was hurt before the race, and when he put weight on his injured leg, the pain made him bolt through the starting gate. He should have been examined then, or xrayed at least. Watch the race again...I knew he was injured by how he walked, and then bolted.

In any case, let Nicanor be himself, and hope he wins his next race. Meanwhile, Mr. Fantasy runs in the Gotham. Personally...I want Nicanor in the Wood Memorial.  But, he has to win impressively. Let's hope Nicanor runs like...Nicanor...!!

Was surprised, at first, that Prado wouldn't be up. But, MM and crew have a better idea of how Nic is doing than I do. They're around him everyday.

Looked up the pedigrees of almost all the horses for the 8th and don't see any real bad examples of breeding there. And, yep, Dubinsky is entered. It'll be interesting, no matter what the outcome.

2 Time and My Migraine, you do have the right to say what you wish. I have been tracking Nicanor since last summer and I have read several posts that I didn't agree with. However, I can say that, usually, I was made to think about my own opinions and, in some cases, revise them through those posts. So, have at it.

I will, just to warn you, remain a Nicanor supporter, along with the rest of the family and connections.

Thanks, Amanda, for keeping us apprised. You're faster than Virtual Stable!

To Nicanor love you and just remember to have fun when you race.You will do it!!!!!

I am new to horseracing so could somebody please explain to me how far 7 furlongs is? Also 4 furlongs. Maybe I'll get all this straight someday.

Go fast, run safely and just be Nicanor. We love you, Lentenor and all to follow. Big brother is watching from above and he loves you to.

The only mean-spirited thing I have seen is Stardust calling people Trolls.

MyMigraine, Your are 100 Percent correct, Those posts should be ignored and will be from now on, on my behalf, like I said, I respect educated opinions, I am also a realist, I know the odds are stacked against Nicanor, but I have hope for him and his brothers, I don't make excuses, Just think the Industry needs a feel good story and I am hopefull this could be it !, I follow other horses also, love Freisan Fire, Stardom bound, Rockland, Etc...., But you are right, I will try to adhere to ignoring posts that serve no other purpose then to stir the pot....thanks....Go Nicanor !

Thanks Dona : )

Amanda, Do you know if Jose Lezcano has worked with Nicanor the last three work-outs ?, Just Curious, SMILE Everyone !!!!, lol...

Amanda, to change the subject for a moment, Any news on Spenditallbaby ?, Have not seen anything since her surgery?, Thanks....

JON, I whole hearted agree with you on Barbaro injuring himself befor the start of the Preakness. I think when he broke thru the gate it was the beginning of his injury. Horse put a lot of pressure on their hind legs when they launch out of the gate. They should have examined him throughly when he broke thru. He very well could have injured himself then and with all the adrenelin pumping thru him it didn't really bother him till after the race went off.

Thanks Amanda, Your right, No news is good News, Ummmm, I would say my trifecta would be.....Nicanor, Bear's Prospector, & Dubinsky, Hopefully with Nicanor on top, but I will box it, Just in case, Just hope they ALL have a safe trip !

I decided awhile back to keep my opinions to myself and just be a fan that goes ooh, weeeeeee, and great job Nicanor. Most everyone gets my drift and no one picks my verbiage apart before my eyes.

Opinion #1

Negativity is like the bubonic plague, you're infected the minute someone takes their first bite out of you.

Opinion #2.

When Nicanor begins to win, and I believe he will, you will not hear gee whiz FOB's, I may have been mistaken, other viewpoints will simply fade away.

Opinion #3

I will be sad if Nicanor isn't as great as I think he will be, but I will concede to that if perchance, that time ever arrives.

Oohs and Ahs

Go Nicanor, let's win one for you because you are so cute and adorable.

Lou,

As Amanda pointed out, a furlong is 1/8 of a mile.

A 7 furlong (7f) race is considered a sprint and is a tough distance.  To win, a horse needs a high cruising speed and needs to be able to carry that speed 7 furlongs.

Trainers might talk about a horse having "cheap" speed.  They mean a horse that can run really fast but only for a short distance.

I haven't closely followed Nicanor's published works, but I am a little confused at his work distances.  His works seem to be a furlong shorter than I would expect of a 3-year old approaching his second race.  Maybe the rider is galloping him out strongly after the work, so he might really be breezing 5f or 6f when only the 4f breeze is published.

If I'm not mistaken, breezes end at the finish line.  Trainers will often get an official time on the breeze and the clockers will give the trainer a second time of "galloped out in whatever his time was."  For example, a horse might breeze 4f in 48.1 and gallop out in 1:18.0.  That translates to he was officially clocked doing 4f in 48 and 1/5 seconds but they kept the clock on him for a full 6f which he did in 1 minute and 18 seconds.

It will be interesting to see how he handles a 7f race.  His first race at a mile is a very long race for a first-time starter.  Even a horse the trainer believes will be a two-turn horse (one who performs best in races other than sprints) usually starts at 6f or 7f.

With his mile race, he didn't need to break as sharply as he would have in a sprint race.

Saturday should be an interesting race that may show absolutely nothing about his quality or lack of quality.

Greg J, so you went out the back door on the challenge after asking me to quit the blog if he won.Your afraid to back up your claim that Nic will win - no backbone , just talk?, I'm not surprised and doubted you would take the challenge, what happened to your great feeling that he was going to win?.Mymigraine gave you a wayout to save face and you  ran with it.Remember you started the personal attack on my opinions and for the record I said Prado and Matz were being politically correct never said lying which you claimed I said in a previous blog.Chicken little lives!

Marigold read the blog again I was referring to the worshipper stardust who thinks nic is the greatest.If he wins i'll eat crow and lay on the congrats and make most of you happy but if  he loses I'll state my opinion about his performance.My hats off to the moderator who believes in free speech and isn't influenced by the Judge and Jury. Really looking forward to this race!Now on to see my shrink to I can become sane per the Judge and Jury. Don't take life so seriously folks save your stress for a real crisis.

Bloggers , what makes a very good blog are different opinions and the smart moderator knows this , so look at all the comments my opinion and others  has generated?Checkout the other blogs in this section  limited comments comapared to this one. This is life in the greatest country in the world with the best race horses and trainers. That comment is for you sheikh!

By the way no way Greg J you or any other bloggers will not ignore my blog, your just kidding yourself.everyone wants to read everyone's blog or they wouldn't be here!See your reading this now.

Gre J

Dubinsky  is going to be hard to beat.  I am staying off this blog until later.  Too much negativity here.  Don't need that.  I am not reading the posts that I don't want to, just skipping by.  Have a good day.  :)

Hey kathy the viewpoints will not fade away.Reality will set in sooneither way.

Hey stardust if your skipping the blogs that you don't want to read , then where's the negativity-dah? you can't  bypass 2 time player or any other blog.Stick around your comments are so enlightening.Dubinsky has no chance to win -the great Nic will beat the field per your friend The J, he had avision.

You're testing me aren't you 2 T V. That's okay, you're okay, I'm okay.

Jon

I really have to dissagree with you on this Barbaro thing.  You are right in one aspect.  IF they would have X-rayed his leg BEFORE they put him back in the gate then MAYBE they would have found something.  I don't believe that start from the gate is what did it as Barbaro clipped his back leg to his front coming out of the gate for the race  (same thing Nicanor did only much much worse).

That accident was not what killed Barbaro.  He healed from the injuries.  He would have been fine had he not got that evil L.  Because he did, we have started on this project that The Jackson's asked us to do.  Looking for a cure for that deadly desease and saving thousndands of horses, and all of the other things that are passing through Congress.  Eventually we will have all of it done to where we can look back and say "had Barbaro NOT got injured, none of these changes would have happened".  God's full plan IMO was for things to go exactly like they did.  

Barbaro's injury brought awareness to the dark side of the industry and people are finding out how dark that side really is.  The horses are all going to be much better off and they will be treated much better than they did before the demise of Barbaro.  

I was with the thousands of people on January 29th, 2007 and I am here to tell you that we were ready to move the Earth.  That is how much passion we all had for him.  His presence and life on this Earth was extrodinary and I don't believe that he was injured before that second break.  IF he was, it was God's plan anyway.  

Kathy you are right.  :)

I think NICANOR will win and beat Dubinsky by atleast two lengths. Go NICANOR try your best thats all that matters and I know you love to run great post position. Try to stay outside where there is no traffic. Try not to get hurt agian. Also try to get a clean break from stall number nine listen to Jose Lezcano. I am sortove mad that Edgar Prado will not be abourd Nicanor in his second race. Thats fine though try to win the triple crown like your brother would have done.

2 time read my post again!  BARBARO was the greatest horse IMO not Nicanor.  I love all of the brothers and family of Barbaro.  Nicanor?  Yeah I love him too and frankly I would love to see him win but the odds are not good for him to win this race.  I don't care if he doesn't win.  I still love him as much as I always have and will.  

SL As for the trolls.  I am not alone on that one.  :)  Have a wonderful day.  

2 Time and MyMigrane--

Fear not, everyone who reads these postings aren't blind or babbling fan-children. I, too, read the DRF. And as much as I want Nicanor to do better in this race, I'm going to be realistic.

nicanors#1fan

I really would love to see that.  Dubinsky is gonna be hard to beat as I said earlier.  I want for Nicanor to beat him.  As I said, I don't care one way or another.  I just want him on four legs going back to the barn.  :)  

As for the negative comments.  All I have to do is see the name. ;-)  I can then chose to scroll on by or read the negative stuff toward the horses.  

Just a thought - the negative bloggers seem like children looking for negative attention.  Perhaps if we ingore them - they'll go away.  

Anyway - Go Nicanor - I've said it before - it's great to have something positive to follow besides the "State of the Union"

Thanks Amanda for the updates.

Dona...

Thanks for the um...scoop, I guess. I will however still stand by my opinion that in someone saying "this horse may lose", or even "this horse may win" is an opinion.

But you HAVE to admit, IF you're a fair-minded person, that on this blog, if a post is not solely "Go Nicanor, we love you", it is immediately deemed negative.

I must have SOME level of interest in Nicanor if I bother to read this blog, or have him in my stable alerts (I do), or will be going to Gulfstream Saturday (I will) to watch the race, right? GP is an hour plus from me, why am I bothering, if I hate him, as was also stated?

But because I say he's in TOUGH, and I don't think he's going to win, I am another on the FOB's list of bad guys.

As far as MY comment about it being very telling (and smart) that Prado chose graded stakes money potential over a $40k MSW, well...it IS.

Anyone who thinks that NOBODY who is actually connected to the horse did not know he was running Saturday, prior to yesterday's entries, is kidding themselves. I'd bet my last dollar that once it was ascertained that Nicanor's injury was positively NOT serious, and he was back on track (literally), they were already looking at likely 2-3 possibilities. I distinctly remember an article shortly after the debut race, where Matz was quoted as saying Nicanor would probably start again in about a month. Well, here we are.

Which means his "regular" rider, or first-call rider, was probably informed no less than 2 weeks ago what the target was.

So is it telling that Prado would "risk" a trip to CA, graded stakes money and REAL chances to hit the board with those two mounts, than opting to be in FL for the MSW, 8th on the card? Of COURSE it is.

Only the deeply, overly-sensitive would take that as a slam against Nicanor specifically.

As I noted, Prado could also regain the mount on Nicanor for his next race, or anytime in the future. IF he's available, and/or wants it, and/or is asked to. But Prado's trying to make a living, so let's see...a piece of a million dollar purse (Big Cap), a piece of $300k purse (Kilroe) or a piece of a $40k purse. Where would YOU ride???

Anyway, enough rambling... none of this makes me, Prado or anyone else "bad" guys.

Well, except here.

Greg J...

I actually think you are one of the more realistic fans of this horse here. You follow, you love him, you hope he kicks A**...but you're not totally out of touch with reality.

So don't think I was picking on you, as I wasn't. My question yesterday was truly borne of curiosity. I'd have posed it in general and not directed at you specifically, if I'd been trying to stir the pot.

But I knew the answers I'd get, and few would have been backed by anything other than hearts and flowers.

A LOT of people here get incensed if anyone says ANYthing about Nicanor that is not GLOWING...and declaring him the TC winner. Or worse, acting as if there's never been another good horse, or there are NO horses out there that are cared for just as well as the connections of Lael and Matz. It's farce, and the realistic people know it.

Anyhoo, I'll be at the track Saturday...let's see what happens, shall we? ;)

Pam, Well Said, That is the advice I will follow forever.....I am Psyched, Just used some Air Miles for free trip to Miami, Getting there Friday Night!, Weather Forecast is Partly Sunny, Mid 70's for Sat. afternoon,  Going to see Nicanor @ Gulfstream, Cannot Wait.....

MyMigraine, Question for you, Do you think that Jose Lezcano has worked with Nicanor the past few weeks, knowing that Prado wouldn't be available?, Or is it normal for a jockey to get on a young horse(Inexperienced) for the first time in a race?, I would guess that for an inexperienced horse, It would be better if he was somewhat familiar with his rider, But I am not sure on this one....Thx

Hey stardust you still must be reading 2 times blog ,he was right you personally cannot skip or you woiuldn't be talking to him.Dubinsky looks formidable but these are maidens so anything can happen, shpould be interesting , Nicanor must show up this time.

Nicanor, God Bless You!  Do the very best you can Dear Horse Spirit.

On that thought, why do some of you have nothing better to do than be so critical and doubtful?  The idea is to be behind and support all of these wonderful horses!!!

I have nothing but the utmost respect and honor for them all.

Run with the wind, Nicanor.

Pam

That works for me.  

I would like to know if Jose has been riding Nicanor in the mornings.  Amanda do you know?

By the way Edgar, I love ya dearly and you are my favorite jockey/always will be but you are in the doghouse with me LOL :).  Still good luck on Saturday with your mount.  :)  We know the horse has a good jockey for that race.  

Pam

If you want your spirits lifted head over to LVR's blog and help us out with the wedding.  We still have a lot to do.  :)

Amanda that scares me.  I love that horse and if anything happens to him I am going to blow my cool.  STAY SAFE Nicanor.  

Amanda I have no doubt that he is a wonderful jockey.  I have faith in MM and know that he would never put a jockey on any of his horses that he didn't trust.  This is Nicanor though and I wouldn't be the only one having fit.  WW3 would be breaking out if something happened to that horse in this nation.  YIKES.  I am OK with Jose.  

I also want Edgar to do well.  I will let him out of the doghouse long enough to mount the horse and win on Saturday and then we will see where he stands LOL.  Love ya Edgar.    :)

Stardust,

You write about a "wedding" on LVR's blog.

Surely you can't be talking about her breeding after her foal?  Please tell me that is not what you meant.

Where is LVR's blog?

JAJ  

Yes LVR has a breeding date with Dynaformer later this year I think right Amanda?  Would you please guide JAJ to the wedding blog.  :)

We have been planning a wedding since before she was due.  It is getting really good.  We still have a lot of work to do though.  

A little off topic but this blog would know if anybody does.  Any word on Rags to Riches foaling?  She was due on February 21 and I haven't seen any updates.  Anyone know?

Dianne

I would like to know the same thing.  I love her.  She is playing a big part at the wedding too and she will have a little one with her by her side to help mom.  :)  

OK why is La Ville Rouge still pregnant?  We are going on over 10 days overdue here.  That poor mare.  :(  I know just how she feels.  God Bless You sweetheart.  SAFE AND HEALTHY birth for you and our new Godson.  We all love ya.  

Greg J:

Lucky you, getting to go down and see Nic run!!!!!!!!!!!!

Have fun, place a bet there for me so I have a ticket stub to show when he wins! :)

FYI, Nicanor opened at 6/1 odds, Big Top 4/1, Custom for Carlos 5/2, Dubinsky same as Nic 6/1, Bear's Prospector 12/1, Hope it stays there, seems about right, like Nic, Bear & Dubinsky...

YAY Nicanor! Im rooting for ya all the way buddy! Maybe you will win your race and get a little brother sister all in the same week!

The Phantom  

I did read your post (it was short). FYI, I have loved Dubinsky for a long time.  I looked at the field.  That is where I got my information on this race.  I don't like pp 10!  Just so you would know, I really don't read those posts.  I do scroll by because they are a waist of time for me.  I don't like negativity on Nicanors blog OR any blog. Then things get negative, I don't stick around.  :)

mymigraine, I am a loyal FOB but I agree with some of your comments.  This is a huge weekend at Santa Anita and Edgar Prado is a top level professional with a family to support.  It is ridiculous to think he would skip those big money races to ride a maiden race.  Prado's quick actions gave Barbaro a chance to live on that terrible day at Pimlico, he loved Barbaro dearly, and nothing Edgar Prado ever does will be wrong with me.  He usually goes to Dubai as well so if Nic races again at the end of March or early April, don't be looking for Prado to ride.  Another jockey might even be better for the horse.  The Jacksons do not have Michael Matz train all their horses nor do they have Prado ride them all.  I will be watching Nicanor on HRTV and hoping he improves and comes home sound.  

Wow, I said this before, I don't think Nicanor can be rated.  They are going to let him run his own race. 7 furlongs is perfect for Nicanor.  

Greg J

Dubinsky and Nicanor are both 6/1?  Geeeeeeeeesh.  IF I were to place a wager, it would be an exacta box with those two.  I would love for Nicanor to win this race and LVR to foal the same day.  :)

What is Custom for Carlos record?  

Stardust, I am speechless.

Have you ever seen a breeding?  I think you should--it would remove any thought of "wedding" from your mind.

I wrote out what happens during a typical breeding and then thought better of sending it in--maybe Stardust is only 10 years old.

Suffice to say, a breeding lasts a few seconds with the mare's front leg tied up so she won't kick the stallion and wearing a twitch.  She is covered almost from head to toe in leather so the stallion won't savage her.  There is nothing romantic about it.  The stallion walks in the shed, jumps the mare and walks out.

Stardust, I think those 6/1s were from the January 31st race.  Dubinsky faded in the last 1/16 to finish 4th.  He's had several attempts and hasn't broken his maiden yet either.  Anybody know anything more about him?

Greg J...

I don't know who has been on Nicanor in the mornings at Palm Meadows, so I can't really answer your question.

I know little about Lezcano except he's riding realtively well at Gulfstream this meet. I am not overly familiar with him though.

Obviously, Matz thinks enough of him to suggest he ride, and Matz, IMO, is an exceptional horseman, so I don't feel a need to personally second-guess his decision. He may also ride Lezcano in general, and be familiar with him, and feels he'll fit with Nicanor well.

It's not unusual for a jockey to work a horse in the mornings that he's about to ride for the first time, but it's even less unusual for a jockey to get on a horse for the very first time, in the paddock before the race.

Not a very concise answer, but it's all I got! ;)

Stardust, I don't believe Custom for Carlos has raced before(I can't find his record!) ALSO Michael Matz has another horse on same card, Race 11, Hennigan, Who will be riden by Jose Lezcano, So Stardust, that should make you feel a little better that Michael trusts Jose to ride his other horses, Go Nicanor & Hennigan(His odds 15/1)

I have been a FOB since before his Kentucky Derby.  I enjoy following horse racing, but have never actually bet on a race.  I think people need to learn to ignore opinions they don't like.  Everyone is entitled to theirs.  

Now for my opinion.  Nicanor will not make the Derby.  There is no way off of how he's been performing.  That doesn't mean he can't be a factor this fall.  It remains to be seen.  

As for LVR, I hope she'll foal on his race day.  That would be neat.  I hope she has an easy labor, and can't wait to see pics.

Stardust your still sticking around that's so nice , you tell phantom you don't read my supposed negative remarks yet at 11:13 you wrote a blog to me,so you see you can't resist reading my blog as I predicted.Your talking out of both sides of your mouth.If you love Nic so much why wouldn't you care if he wins or not-that's very NEGATIVE!!!!What are Custom for Carlos bloodlines?Has he run before or first timer?Oh yea you don't read my blogs so maybe someone else knows the answer .

JAJ, I am SO with you on this wedding thing. I honestly thought that HAD to be some ridiculous joke, until someone directed me to the other blog and I sat and read it, both highly amused, and with my jaw on the floor simultaneously.

Unreal.

One HAS to wonder...how old are you, "Stardust"? If you really are a young kid, that would at least explain some things. I am not trying to be unkind, I am just wondering.

In an attempt to leave this in a humorous mode, JAJ... your last line regarding the breeding shed made me want to reply with, "Sounds like a few nights in my twenties"...but I aint goin' there! ;)

2 timer, act like a grownup.  You act like the schoolyard bully with your taunting and jeering.  Knock it off.

Leave Stardust alone.  She's young and enthusiastic and she loves that horse.  Why does it matter so much to you?  You come looking for an opportunity to put people down.  Please stop.

Mymigraine:

Many posts back you were saying something about handicapping races.  Hey great.  I wouldn't know a tomato from an orange but oh well.

The point is here back in 91 when I saw Strike the Gold win the Derby I was REPEATEDLY told that whole week--no way.  Dosage and that other percentage thing told everyone no way.

But I saw the way Gold finished the Florida Derby and he bacame my Derby horse (in my heart).

A number of people asked me all Derby week who to bet on.  And I told them.  They told me but but but.

Guess Strike the Gold decided that day to back me up 100% cause I had never let him down.

But then Gold went on a 13 race losing streak (he came in 2 or 3rd a lot--just never quite got up there in time).

Who knows.

JAJ:

Surely you jest.  Breeding back on the foal heat is routinely done.  About 7-10 out from foaling the mare comes back into season (heat).  There isn't anything artificially done to start this.  Mother nature did.

Sometimes when the mare owner decides to wait until the "next time" she comes into season he has a long wait--cause its happened that when the mare owner doesn't breed back on that first foal heat it can be SEVERAL years before he successfully gets the mare into foal again.

I know it sounds gross.  And it sounds mighty painful.  I'm just making a point.

OK, let me get this straight JAJ:  tied up, leather, savage.... hmmm... sounds like a honeymoon to me.  

Just stop trying to shock Stardust out of her cloud.  Leave her be, she's not hurting anyone.  Don't worry Stardust, most us here just want what's best for Barbaro's bro, but we might disagree on the details and how to get there... OK?

JaJ, now your on Stardust's negative list, as I said she is a groupie worshipper of Nic, ra ra ra and is a la la daydreamer.Now you'll be trolled by her.

your so right wham bam thank you mam back to the stall.[no wedding}!

sounds like nicanor's back. hope he does well in the race and silences his critics.

I have read all the blogs on here and really I do not think that they are bad.  Everyone has an opinion and should be heard regardless of the pros and cons. In fact I will say this, love Nick follow him faithly as well as the rest of the family and only want the best for them BUT and this is a big but...I do not think that he will win as much as I want him too.  My only feeling is I want to see improvement in this race, winning can come later down the line but he must improve with each race. Dynaformer's are better older and think Nick will do much better later on.  If he wins fine, will take it but if not he is still my boy.

I do know how she feels, my son was due June 1 and was born on July 2, he was a true 44 week baby that weighed 10 lbs 8 oz and had ingrown toenails! yes , i know how this mare feels.. lol

Nicanor and Stardom Bound are both running on my birthday! I hope they both win! It would be the perfect birthday present!

JAJ

Wedding is on.  Horses are horses :)  You are not invited.  :)

Only one more day until Nicanor's race. I am so excited for him.

I hope all goes well and he comes in first without any injuries.

Thanks Amanda for the info on the furlongs. Do you know if Blood Horse's site will have a video of Nicanor's race like they did last time? I live in TX and don't have Dish Network so I can't see the races at Gulfstream. I get TVG but they don't seem to show the races at Gulfstream. At least I haven't seen one yet. Thanks for keeping up with LVR. I got an email from the office at Mill Ridge Farm yesterday and she hadn't foaled as of then. Maybe we can keep up at Mill Ridge Farm.com.  Thanks for this blog.

Some information on the starters in the 8th race at GP on 3/7. Hope this helps, as a few here have asked various questions regarding the field.

1. Discreet Street, a son of Street Cry out of Torrid. Has 5 starts to date, best finish was 3rd place at 6 1/2f at Churchill Downs. Last Beyer is listed as an 86, for a 4th place finish going 1 1/8 miles at Gulftsream.

2. Lamm, one start, back on June 19th at Churchill, he ran second by a length to Medaglia d'Onore going 5 1/2f. Last work was March 3, at Palm Meadows, 4f in .49.45

3. Big Top, by Giant's Causeway out of Thorough Fair, which makes him a half brother to multiple graded stakes winners Spellbinder and Whywhywhy (first crop sire of BC Juvenile Turf winner Nownownow). Making his first start Saturday for trainer Nick Zito. Last recorded work was Feb. 28 at Palm Meadows, went 4f in 47 flat

4. Dubinsky, by Toccet out of Breath Of Life. Four starts to date, two second places and two fourths, running from 6f to a mile. He has faced eventual Fountain Of Youth winner Quality Road, and the highly regarded Alma d'Oro, as well as stakes also-ran Taqarub, in his races.

5. Noah's Arch, by Arch out of the Seattle Slew mare Inny River. First time starter from the McLaughlin barn. Gets Trujillo for debut. Last work was March 2 at Palm Meadows, 4f in 49.45, listed as breezing, which means all effort was on the horse, nothing was asked of him.

6. Boots Ahead, by Storm Boot out of Mostbeautifulsound. First time starter, last work is listed as March 2, in 51.20 over a track labeled "good".

7. Bear's Prospector, by Silver Deputy out of Glory And Grace, has 4 starts to date, with three 5ths and a 2nd. He has finished behind Saratoga Sinner, the Holy Bull winner, and the well regarded Ziegfeld. Last Beyer is listed as a 74. His best finish, the 2nd place, was at 1 1/8, at Gulfstream.

8. Woodford Manhattan, by Touch Gold out of Santaria, which makes him a half brother to multiple graded stakes winners Medallist and Air Commander. First time starter for Zito. Last work was Feb. 28 at Gulfstream, breezing 4f in 48.40

9. Nicanor, probably needs no real introduction, but will add the fact and figures here, has had one start, finishing 10th by 25 lengths on January 31st at Gulfstream in 1 mile MSW. Last work was March 3 at Palm Meadows, 4f in 48.40

10. Custom For Carlos, by More Than Ready out of Meadow Oaks, has one start to date, finished 2nd by a head in 6 1/2f MSW at Gulfstream on Feb. 11th, earning an 85 Beyer. He finished behind well-regarded BZ Warrior that day, 1/2 sibling to graded stakes winners and/or stakes placed EZ Warrior and JZ Warrior. Gulfstream's leading rider Kent Desormeaux is aboard him again this time.

"Expressing your opinion? Yeah, we know how that goes, some of us are pretty good at "expressing" our opinions also, complete with sarcasm, nescient ramblings and inane commentary."

So... does any EXTREMELY frequent poster see herself in this description? If you don't, look up "nescient." I did. Of course, if you are this person, you won't see it (or admit it) anyway.

Oh, and to stay on topic - GO NICANOR!! I hope you blow 'em out of the water!!

I know Lezcano has been on one or more of the Smarty foals, but I can't recall which ones off the top of my head. I was thinking maybe Rockland, but I could very well be wrong. I agree with those who thinks that Prado's loyalty to Matz and/or Nicanor would override his opportunity to make big bucks at Santa Anita on Saturday. I don't think it is "telling" in that he necessarily thinks Nic can't win the race, but even if Nic wins, his purse share could not match up to even finishing in the money in the 'Cap.

Marigold, Believe it or not, Those are the Opening Odds, for Nic's race, Of course they will change, I can't figure it out either, I can't seem to find a history on Custom for Carlos and he is the favorite......Interesting....the Handicappers know something about him.....

Found it, Custom for Carlos raced his first race @ Gulfstream on Feb. 11, a 6 1/2F race, He finished second by a head to B.Z. Warrior, I saw three handicappers who have Nicanor finishing fourth, one has him second, ONE HAS HIM WINNING!, FYI, Custom for Carlos had a 88 Beyer in his first race....Should be interesting....

Sorry, One more thing, Michael Matz has four Horses going tomorrow, Desired, Race 1, PP 3/7, NICANOR, Race 8, PP 9/10, Tejida, Race 10, PP 13/15, & Hennigan, Race 11, PP 8/9, Jose Lezcano is on all EXCEPT Tejida, who has Joe Bravo......Good Luck to all of Michael's Horse, Be Safe......

Custom for Carlos: More then Ready, Meadow Oaks, also if you go back farther has Mr. Prospecter, Northern Dancer, Seattle Slew, Halo, Etc......

FYI, DESIRED in Race One!!!, 2.2 Millon Daughter of Storm Cat, WILL WIN, Has had 10 months off, Jose Lezcano will be on HER(Yes a filly).

Greg J - have a great trip and enjoy.  I'll have to settle for the replay.  I'm in NY and can't find a Gulfstream broadcast anywhere but I'll be there in spirit.

Hay Greg J.-Stardust

What about racing a 5 year old, made over 500,000. in his life time and just doesnt want to race anymore... Thats beautiful Storm In May entered in a race 3-7-09 at Gulfstream..

That wedding stuff is just fantasy and games, I would really hate for someone to think it was otherwise. Perhaps folks should not be so serious...

Good Luck beautiful Nicanor on Saturday sweet fella....

Nicanor and everyone else have a safe trip in your races.

With only one race on Nicanor, it would be premature to label Prado his regular rider.  Others horses on the east coast who have had a particular jockey ride them more than Prado has Nicanor are losing their jockeys to California that day.  From all appearances, Prado is not riding in just one race while he's there.  It only makes sense for them to ride where they can make more money.  Only if they had a really, really big horse that was staying back east to run on Saturday would they likely bow out of California.  I'm sure if Matz was uncomfortable with another jockey, he would not have entered Nicanor in this race.

That said, there is no reason to assume that Prado will become Nicanor's regular rider.  That does not mean that Prado is not a good jockey- but sometimes certain people fit certain horses better and it is a lot smarter if you can figure that out to use that jockey whenever you can.

Also, IMHO, any good jockey would do what Prado did for Barbaro that day.  You do the best you can to get the horse stopped safely.  Sometimes there is traffic you have to let clear first and sometimes the horse fights too much.  All sorts of factors play in the scenario and had it been even a little bit different, people might not be praising Prado today for his great efforts at getting Barbaro stopped- even though his efforts would, in reality, have been just as great and not his fault at all if circumstances had not let him pull up as fast as he did.  The public just doesn't realize all the factors in play.

IMHO, Nicanor is not likely to win this race but I do hope he will show steady improvement.  Even if he has speed and does not want to be rated, he would still have to carry that speed the whole 7 furlongs.  So I'm hoping that Lezcano can get him to rate a little bit this time.  Perhaps the only directive for this race is to get Nicanor to relax.  That would be a worthy goal in and of itself.  If Nicanor has a lot to learn, and it appears he does, then the goal of a race may not be the obvious.  Nice to pick up some bucks, but Nicanor's owners have the ability to let him develop slower.

If Lezcano works with Nicanor, if MM keeps him on the horse, good.  That is not a slam against Prado at all.  It may be that Lezcano and Nicanor are a better fit, who knows?  Nicanor is not Barbaro. Maybe when he learns the game, any jockey can ride him.  There is just so much unknown yet about Nicanor.

I hope Nicanor shows steady improvement out of the limelight.  Time to let him be who he will be.

FYI, Dubinsky had a work-out on Sunday, 4F in 49.20, Nicanor was almost a full second(.80) faster, even though I don't believe times in work-outs mean that much as far as the speed of the horse, I think they gauge alot of other aspects that are more important....

OMG, People, Does anyone here have an Imagination ?, Why would anyone take this wedding thing serious, it is for FUN !, It is a diversion !, Imagination can be expressed through stories such as fairy tales or fantasies, It is fun, DO NOT TAKE IT LITERALLY!, My god.........Stardust, I think it is wonderfull that WE can have such a great Imagination, only close minded people would take it serious.....PLEASE!, as Einstein(Not the Horse!) said......"Imagination…is more important than knowledge. Knowledge is limited. Imagination encircles the world.", So can everyone take it in context, Thank You....

Greg J I don't know what to think of this race.  It isn't Jose, it is the field.  I guess we shall wait and see.  That poor horse that is in pp10.  :(  So sad.  Go Nicanor.  STAY SAFE!

thanks for the pedigree updates on horses in this race and records.Looks like a good class of maiden's in the race with excellent bloodlines. countdown less then 30 hours.

Ragsy.  I said this on the other blog.  

I think putting Stormy in that race is nuts.  IMO that is not cool.  I just say my prayers and hope for the best.  I will be really mad if something happens to that beautiful horse.  

Wanda-

Pretty sure it was bear's rocket who placed in the holy bull, not Prospector-watch your bet.  Grade 3 earnings to MSW @12-1. Pretty sure that can't happen.

Just a brief comment about foaling, etc.  If a mare doesn't have an "easy" foaling, something is very wrong.  99% of the time it happens quickly and easiy.  That 1% of the time you need a vet (or intervention) pronto.  And along the same lines, breeding back on the foal heat would not be comparable to a human "breeding" back at that time.  See above.

Greg J, you are a wealth of good information.  Thank you so much.  Rather hear what you have to say than others, by a long shot.  Constructive information always trumps snide jeering.   I always look for your posts and look forward to them.

Greg J,

I would've used those frequent flier miles for the Big Cap this weekend. It's going to be Electric! And some of the top horses in the country as well, including two BC Winners (Stardom Bound & Ventura)

Ragsy;

Storm In May is being raced every 2-3 three weeks without placing, just doesn't want to run anymore. Evidently his sale price is too high, and the claiming races he's running in are also high. Imawildandcrazyguy is running also and seems to be the same sorry state. Im hoping these owners and trainers aren't trying to virtually run them to death.:(

The "wedding blog" is just something we are having fun with while we wait for Nic's race and for LVR to have her foal. We use it as comic relief from the less positive remarks.

Greg J:

HAVE FUN TOMORROW!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Re:  Foal Heat breedings

Yes, Margaret, foal heat breedings are fairly common, but not desired.  They result in fewer full-term pregnancies than do breedings at heats other than foal heats although with the use of ultrasound, it has a higher success race than previously.

I have a mare who foals 16 days over her due date every year, so to just keep the same approximate foaling time, I have to breed her on the foal heat.  Foaling can best be described as explosive--and then to go and breed my mare on her foal heat after delivering big foals makes me cringe.

For those that don't understand, a mare will have her first cycle from 7 to 14 days after foaling.  If she cultures clean, she can be bred on Day 10 at the earliest.  Before that, there is too much debris being shed from the foaling.  No one breeds a "dirty" mare.  That's the term, and I agree, it really is an ugly expression.

If she cycles too early, a mare will be given hormones to "short cycle" her--so she comes back into season at about Day 18 after foaling instead of Day 31.

As far as deciding the breeding day and even the time of day, the mare will have an ultrasound to gauge the time the follicle will be ready.

Breeding horses is a very dangerous business--dangerous for the horses and those handling them.  There will probably be about a dozen men in the breeding shed when they breed Dynaformer.

I still can't get over the amount of energy and space devoted to this "wedding."  If I'm not mistaken, Dynaformer is one of the nastiest stallions in Kentucky to deal with--nasty as in dangerous and could kill someone.  I may be mistaken, but I think he really tries to savage his mares--literally attack the mare.  Without all that leather, many a mare would be seriously injured in the breeding shed.  I mean, to even put Dynaformer's name in the same sentence as something romantic.....  Oh, well.

CurlinxTwo; That was a really interesting post, thanks! I am not sure if Nicanor can win but I hope I'm proved wrong. Also, I will still love him regardless.

Nicanor wants to race and is determined.  That is half the battle.

I hope for a good safe race, and I hope Nicanor WINS!@@

Where is Edgar?  Jose is a great jockey but..

Question:  What are the preferred post positions for a race and why?

Good Luck Nicanor.  Safe race

HRTV announced that Edgar is off all his mounts at Santa Anita.  Anyone know why?  Is he ill??

Cheers to Nicanor and Jose!  

Don't think that Prado could have ridden Nick in his race today if he had been here.  He has been scratched from all of his races at S.A. today so think something must have happened.

You can watch the race live on Youbet.net, just sign up for a playmoney account "free" and watch.

Good Luck today Nic' and Michael, Safe trip!

What's this???  Prado is not riding at Santa Anita today???  Will he be at Gulfstream?

Hmmmmm; glad "Nicanor" can't read.

My Qtr horse mare was due to foal first week in Feb. The foal was born Apr 10th.  I do understand.  My own daughter was due Nov 1st.  She was born Dec 1st.  Yeah, I do understand.

JAJ"

Thanks for clearing up all the heat/cycle up, I was getting lost there when you all were discussing it!

Yeah Nicky Knocks good showing am pround of you.  Kiss Kiss

Just watched Nicanor's race and he was great!  He came in second, after leading for much of the race, beaten by a length by the favorite.  If the race had been an extra furlong, I think Nicanor would won it hands down.  He was coming back after the favorite gained 2 lengths on him and Nic was rallying and a little further he would've won.  Fantastic ride by the jockey and amazing run by Nic!  He will be great he just needs more experience!

I just wached his race! Yay Nicanor he did so well I'm so excited!!!!! He should improve a lot I think he's just getting the hang of this whole racing thing.

I wish I could have seen the race.

Very impressed with his effort today, looks like Matz has done a wonderful job since the first race. Obviously will like stretching out.Keep that jockey on him.

I hope that Bloodhorse will run his race on here.  I watched it but the darn thing kept stalling so I couldn't really see it that well.  He is impoving and that is the main goal and what I wanted to see.  Give him a few more races and he will put it all together.  Go Nick.

GOOD JOB NICKY, YOU DID REALLY GREAT. I DIDNT SEE THE RACE BUT WHEN I CHECKED THE RESULTS AND SAW HE WAS SECOND I WAS SO HAPPY. WAY TO GO NICKY !  WHAT'S THAT THEY SAY, THIRD TIMES THE CHARM ? JOSE ALSO DID A WONDERFUL JOB. CONGRATS TO NICKY AND ALL THE CONNECTIONS AND FANS.

2 Timer!  THANK you for the gracious words!  You can express yourself here anytime. You are a decent person after all!  We, foolish, deluded fans of Nicanor feel somewhat vindicated today -- he demonstrated that he has heart and speed and ability, yet again.  We just believe in him and he is proving our faith to be justified.

And, I agree, Jose is a good fit for him.  But that is Michael's call, after all.  Nic has a little more learning to do before he puts it all together.  He is a Dynaformer after all!  He made his old man proud today.

Thanks Marigold !, Again, What an amazing Race for Nicanor and us Fans of Nicanor(FON'S),(lol).....

Greg J

Great comment about Imagination!!  What in the world would we do if everything in life had to be serious?  Life is suppose to be fun.  The wedding is rocken.  Dynaformer is throwing a fit though.  Maybe you have an idea.  Check it out.  LOLOL :)

Greg J.

Einstine LOL!  He won today by the way. So did Stardum Bound.  :)

That was funny.  

Marigold

It is all my fault.  I put Edgar in the doghouse and forgot to let him out.  LOL.  Sorry about that.  He actually slept all day.  He wasn't feeling well.  When I went to let him out he told me "I didn't want to race today anyway, I don't feel well".  I am sorry

:(  I forgot that I had him in the doghouse for not riding Nicky.  Turns out Jose did great as I knew he would. I so trust MM.   I still love Edgar though.  Nothing will change my mind there as number one jockey in my world.  :)

Just noticed that Nicanor was nominated to the Rebel stakes at Oaklawn.  I'm sure he won't run but just the fact that his connections nominated him indicates that he is comely along very nicely in their opinion.

TripleCrownCoug;

thanks for the info, why didn't you post on the new, post race, blog? Did you think it would open another can of worms there?:)LOL

Donna: (comment at 1:57) I think you may have just given the Jacksons' a good idea for new baby's name, "BABYNOR". How cute!!!!!!! To bad he needs a name to grow into tho'. He may always be babynor to his stable mates/groomers......