Once again Amanda & Yetta Feltner, Incredible Pictures of Nicanor & Hennigan(Was wondering who that was!), I should have known...The fifth one down(With both in Mid Air) is a great action shot...I love how he is looking straight ahead and not at Hennigan, I bet M.Matz is trying to run side by side on purpose to try to get Nicanor to realize, He has to finish AHEAD of that other horse, lol...

Thanks Again...

Oh Yeah!! He's a pretty boy. May the Lord keep him healthy and safe.

I just love the last picture. Nicanor is such a beautiful colt. I sure hope Julien rides him in his next race. That young man is on fire theses days. If anyone can get a win out of Nic. it will be Julien Leparoux. Thanks so much for the wonderful photos.

Amanda and Yetta, thank you both so much for posting these pictures and continually providing the insight and information you do keep us informed.  I love the way Nicanor carries himself - so regal with that air of knowing who he is.  I for one am looking forward to him racing again.  I think we all want him to come into his own and figure out what he's supposed to be doing.  I will continue to believe he's going to be a great racehorse and if he doesn't that's fine too.  We all love him and have followed his progress from the beginning and will continue to follow his progress.  

These photographics have truly captured his spirit, thank you Yetta they're wonderful!

Oh my, how uplifting again, after a hard day at work! Hey, Miguel, wanna trade jobs this week? These boys are beautiful, and once again, thanks to all of Nickys and Hennigans connections for bringing happiness and enjoyment to all us horsey crazed bloggers!

I LOVE that last shot. Thank you for all the photos!! <3<3

Thank you Amanda, and Yetta, wonderful pics!

if only all racehorses got the same love and attention this dude gets.  spread the love

Julian has been red hot and think he himself is really coming into his own, maybe that is a sign for both of them.  Can't wait to see his race and who knows rider #3 may be the lucky one for our boy. Even in the pic of Nicky and Hennigan it still looks like he doesn't want to pass Hennigan but just stay with him.  Still think blinkers would help.  Go Nick.

Lost more weight? They need to serve this horse something he likes to eat, look at the other 3 year Derby bound horses comapared to Slim.

Amanda, I love the pictures. Nicanor is gorgeous as ever.

Hennigan is a pretty good looking guy too!  They looked great together.  Loved the pictures.

Phantom,

Which top contenders are you referring to?  The 4 of the previous top 10 that defected due to injury?  He is slightish, and is built alot like his damsire, who has a good rap concerning durability for a Prospector son.

Phantom is food all you can think about??  Nic looks wonderful, fit, muscular and about the same size as Hennigan, another beautiful colt.

Some time back someone was describing Nicanor as built more streamlined, like European style racehorses.  That is just Nicanor, but he has the muscles in the right places!

Beautiful photos, thank you Yetta and Amanda and Bloodhorse. Right now, you guys are keeping me going.  I am going to have to put down my beloved little Carly this week and the grief is sometimes unbearable.  Nicanor can put a smile on my face, though...Hope he races this weekend! And wins!!!

brett, the horse is skinny compared to other derby bound horses, look at Revenge, Dunkirk, Desert Party, Quality.The reason there are so many injuries is the breeding has gone for speed not stamina and most trainers and owners are money first orientated .Each generation the horses are weaker and not as well conditioned.He should be durable he gets so much time off between races.He needs to put on more weight period.

MVH, this horse is not muscular by any stretch of the imagination.Photos don't lie he needs to put on weight which I'm sure the trainer is trying to do,why do you think he is waiting so long to race him again.Never heard of hennigan has he won a race?

Hennigan entered Friday-race 10-KEE

Ingore the Phantom like we did the other nay sayers and he'll disappear into the mist like the rest!

Great photos!  Keep up the good work.

Just love this blog.

Pam

Brettzky99,

    If any intelligent, informed person looks at the progression of Nicanor in just the last 3 months in regard to his physique(Go back and look at all of his pictures), it is quite obvious how much he is turning into a well formed Thoroughbred. He has a well chiseled head with widely spaced, intelligent eyes. His neck is long, withers high, and his chest deep. His well defined stature continues through an evenly curved back, lean, muscular body, and clean, long legs, with big feet, lol! I know he still needs to fill out just a little more, but he sure is turning into one good looking racing machine!...

   Certain people just leave negative comments, for only one reason, to get off on people responding to them, nothing more, nothing less, pretty shallow, if you ask me....but they have to look at themselves everyday in the mirror, so GLAD that is not me...

Phantom,

   You ever think the reason he may be thinner is because he's still growing? Also, if you haven't noticed thoroughbreds are not easy keepers in terms of weight. I own two, and one of them needs all kinds of things like supplements, beat pulp, alfalfa hay, etc. to be kept at a good weight, especially when being exercised hard, and i'm a jumper. Racers run they're legs off, so it's not suprising to me in the least that a young horse like nick who is maturing later then most, probably still growing, and exercising very hard almost every day is a bit thin.

MVH,

   My heart goes out to you !, Trust me though, When and if you make the decision to put your beloved carly down, Both you and carly will know when that time is!, I know it sounds weird but a few years ago, I had to make that decision for my awesome cat, Wookie, I couldn't fathom doing it, but after about three weeks of caring for him with an IV attached to him, he was weak, But one day, He showed amazing heart and courage and jumped up on my bed and gave me a head butt, something he hadn't done in months!, It was his sign to me that it was time, so, then and there, I made that decision...Toughest thing I have ever done but it was the right thing to do...I vowed after that to never own another cat, but about a month later, I found myself driving by the humane society, and found an 8 week old kitten, Now named Cheetah(10 years old in Sept.), and my family of cats grew....Cheetah, Tiger, Cougar, Puma, Summer, and Gizmo(Some homeless cats that I saved, one feral cat that just showed up at my home)!

    I know your grief is unbearable, but time will heal that, trust me...

    So, again, My Heart goes out to you......

I think Nicanor looks great. I see no boney hips or ribs. He may be a little lighter then Hennigan, but not much. I think you have to consider "the phantom"'s comments and wonder what's in a name. Does he sit in the dark in an attic somewhere and feed negativity to us and who knows who else ? Or, is his desire for Nicanor to put on weight a product of "the Phantom"'s environment. In other words is he hoping Nicky will one day weigh as much as he does?

Actually, Phantom's comments regarding breeding are accurate.  Nicanor is a great looking horse, but is not overly muscular, and probably never will be.  He will fill out to an extent, but he is built according to his mares strain genetically, as it pertains to his physique.  La Ville Rouge is fairly small, as was Carson City, with a ton of speed and brilliance.  Barbaro, and it appears Lentenor, are alot more muscular than Nicanor (although both of them display alot of Carson City also;  most notably in Barbaro's high rear leg action, and Lentenor's striking resemblance to Pollard's Vision).  That being said, Nicanor is a great looking lean colt, and seems to be a talented racehorse.

Completely agree with Greg J. comment. Thanks!

Phantom - you make a good point. Maybe if they put a moving bucket of carrots on the inside rail - similar to the hare in a greyhound race - we'll finally see some results.

Phantom, we have a 3 year old that is still "skinny" as you put it.  He is extremely tall, a hair under 17 hands bare foot.  He eats and eats, but is still growing.  Nicanor is built similarly to this youngster, tall, slim, and leggy.  YOU CANNOT judge his weight or his fitness from photos.  Michael Matz is waiting to run him because he last ran March 28 and he is trying to space his races 3-4 weeks apart.  He also shipped him recently and would like to give him time to settle in a new place.  Lastly, the condition book at Keeneland is not that full of races that suit him.  I still expect to see him run again April 19, there are 2 races that could suit.  Any horse that is as full of himself and has such a beautiful, glossy coat is in good shape.  Race horses are not pleasure or show  horses and should not look like they do.

These pictures are amazing. I see so much of Barbaro in them and I know he has what it takes to be one of the best. He had a rought start and now he can start new. Good luck Nicanor in the races ahead. I'll be here screaming for you.

Folks,

I've visited him @ Keeneland myself and can say for certain, he is not underweight and is, indeed, quite muscular.  As a matter of fact, his body resembles that of Barbaro three years ago @ Keeneland when I visited him as well.  If you don't believe me that's fine, but I have the photos to prove it.

Thanks for the pictures of Nicanor.I hope people can take a minute and appreciate what these animals do for our well being and the joy it brings.Yeah we all want to win money on a horse race,right?But we should all take a moment to aknowledge the care that goes into to them-they are fed,bathed and taken care of just like my dog is by me at my home.Let us all take an extra moment every day and give all our animals a little extra special attention a small effort for the joy they bring us.

anybody who says this horse is muscular,need glasses!.He's not tall and is skinny as I said look at the horses I mentioned.I bet anything Matz wants him to put on weight.Tom F you won't get fan mail talking about his 0-3 record but he has improved a lot and shouldn't have a problem breaking his maiden at this meet. How many of you women out there would love to be called skinny hahaah , you wouldn't consider that negative would you!

Derby fan comment quite muscular and you have photos to prove it -what are these fake we are looking at? Are you sure you saw the right horse -he's not muscular your credibility is zero.

Nicanor's a beauty and we all love him - and that's all that matters!

Hey ladies would you rather be called skinny or FAT? hahaaaah

We all the answer to that.What's negative about being called skinny?

Hey Derby fan i bet you couldn't pick Barbaro out of a lineup of 10 horses head shots so who do you think your kidding he looks like B 3 years ago-give me a break.

So glad to hear Leparoux was/is working with Nicanor. He is known to be very patient with a fast closing horse and excells as a rider on the turf. Maybe something's going to change for Nicanor. Funny, I was wondering the other day if Julien would be a good choice after watching him win a stakes race and be oh so patient. Lately, he has been riding a lot for Michael Matz, I won't be at all surprised if he gets the mount on Nicanor.

MVH - My heart goes out to you in your sorry. I promise I will be with you in my thoughts whenever you decide the time has come.

I lost my little love this past Good Friday. Tiffy was 16 years young and still had a cry like a  kitten. What a little imp she was and everyone always said Tiffy was forever young but her heart was no match for her spirit and after a breakfast of her favorite mixed grill, lots of hugs and kisses, she went over to her basket, got comfortable, curled up and went to sleep.

As hard as it was to watch and experience, I could not ask for a better way for her to go.

There is some measure of comfort in being with them at the final moment. Remember Mrs Jackson said the price of love is grief, pay that price with your broken heart and be thankfull that you can. Some people never know what love is, or offer a heart up to be broken. They are the ones to be pitied.    

brettzky99, got a question for you, but first in regards to the way Nicanor is shaped. I personally believe that the length of Nicanor's legs probably distorts how people see him in pictures. It would also be interesting to see what Lentenor looks like as I believe someone called him chunky last fall.

When I saw Rainbow View's picture for the first time last year, I thought she was awfully lean. So when Mr. Phantom started his discussion on Nicanor's leanness, (skinny is such a yucky word.) I decided to see if there were any similarities between the two and low and behold there is Fleet Nasrullah on the La Reine Rouge line and the Words of War line, both on the dam side. Fleet Nasrullah is both long legged and extremely lean compared to the horses he is leaving in the dust in the Pedigree Query photo. Could that be where Nicanor and Rainbow View are getting their slender ways? Fleet Nasrullah also appears to have a similar running to Nicanor's in the picture, except of course we haven't seen Nicanor's winning side yet.

And Mr. Phantom, I know you have feelings somewhere, so I hope I haven't jostled them about any.

looks great needs gate rider

The Phantom, I do agree with you that inbreeding is prevelant.  Look at the pedigrees of Big Brown and Eight Belles, catastrophic injuries waiting to happen.  They were bred for speed only with no thought of soundness.  This is not the case with Nicanor.  He is a strong sound horse with a good pedigree.   This is the last response you will receive from me.  I'll pass over your comments.

Greg J, glad you agree with me about Friesan Fire.  This guy will win the Kentucky Derby.  He has the best pedigree out of all of them, although I realize pedigree is not everything, it's the first thing I look at.  He runs like Secretariat, and he has a lot of Secretariat in his pedigree.  He is a fine horse.  Nicanor will win his next race; you can count on it.

Phantom, check this out.  

www.flickr.com/.../set-72157616605448755

I rest my case.

E V

Yeah wouldn't that be nice.  There are thousands of Angels all around this horse and I am sure he feels it as does Lentenor and Barbaro did.  

Amanda.  Thanks again for more beautiful and toned up pics of our beautiful Nicky.  Skinny HA!  He is just right.  :-)

Greg J.

We need to avoid the people that talk negative about Nicky Nocks.  Any of the Barbaro family for that matter.  They are just negative people and they can't stand it when a horse gets all this attention.  Nicanor is a fine looking young man and he is getting stronger by the day.  MM is not pushing him.  THAT is hard to find in a trainer.  :)

DerbyFan

Not only do you have those but you have seen the horses.  I am sure you have a clear picture and the photos here are just fine.  Nicanor is very toned up.  He just isn't being pumped full of steroids to make him appear bigger.  :-)

And another:

www.flickr.com/.../set-72157616605448755

Wonderful pictures Yetta.  Thanks for posting them Amanda.  Nic is a really nice looking horse.  It will be interesting to see how much he really does fill out as he matures.  For now- he looks great.

Beautiful, beautiful pictures.  Thank you so much for sharing them with us.

MVH,

My heart and thoughts go out to you and Carly.  The love felt for our pets is more than words can adequately describe.  Our hearts beat differently when we are with them and the emotions felt go beyond simple words such as love or blessing.  Please know that Carly and you are in my prayers.

Thanks, Yetta for the photos.  I absolutely love the last one.  The lighting is spectacular.

What a gorgeous horse!

I hope i get to see Nicanor race someday He is a beautiful colt and will always be loved. Darlene.

Ooooooh! Don't I just want to kiss that nose!!! Great photos!

Beautiful pictures of Nicanor as always. He looks like he was born on the track and is really at home on it.

~Nicole

All of the photos are spectacular--especially love the last head shot!!

Just wanted to wish Chelokee a Happy Birthday(D.O.B. 04/15/04), Its been a tough year for him!, But he made it and Happy Birthday to him!...

Also,

    Expecting a Notification today on Nicanor being entered to race this weekend @ Keeneland!!!, We will see......

That last picture is so beautifull!!

Happy Birthday Chelokee!  Love you big guy.  Sooooo glad that you had MM with you.  You are one lucky horse.  Lots of carrots and apples for you today.  

MVH

Love the pics!  Case well made.  :)

The links to the pictures of Nic's wokout with Julien, show him to be well muscled and toned.  He is a gorgeous, gorgeous horse and he will be an outstanding racehorse, once he figures it all out.  I hope Greg is right and that he races this weekend and breaks his maiden.  I, for one, could sure use the joy that that will bring.  

Greg J.  Horsenut, Ragsy, Lou.. and the rest on board.  

Please pick your second horse for the trail ride.  I just thought I would remind you guys that you need to do that.  I up-dated this stuff at LVR's blog.  Greg I LVR is getting her hair done!  LOL

ANY Fan of Barbaro could pick him out of a line up of  a hundred horses with a head shot.  We know what our Barbaro looks like down to the whisker.  Trust that.   :)

Nicanor is NOT a Derby horse.  Nicanor is Nicanor a full brother to the most famous horse on the planet.  He is not skinny.  he is just right!  If he was on the lean side or skinny as some retards say then MM would be talking about it.  They don't lie and they don't lead people on like a lot of horse people do.  Love you Nicky Nocks.  

I to believe Firesan Fire will win the derby,a bright spot for Larry Jones and to honor the Beautiful Eight Belles,do they call this irony?Well deserved.

I don't care what anyone says I think Nicanor is a beautiful boy! He will fill out with age and will be better than ever. Thank God they are working him slow!

Nicanor looks pretty good to me.  Please remember he is growing 3 y.o. and horses by Dynaformer are known to mature late.  Dynaformer is not a "heavy" horse, but a tad on the slimmer side.  Also, Nicanor recently shipped from Florida.  Many horses drop some weight from shipping and he went from warm weather to much lower temperatures in Kentucky.  In some of the photos, his ears seem really big to me.  Is he going to grow into them or just have some big ears?  He is a good looking horse and looks good in his work with Hennigan.  We can all write whatever we want, but Matz is a long-experienced, professional and knows what he is doing.  He is not going to jeopardize that horse in any way!      

Stardust your interpretation of negative is so wrong. He's skinny that's what I and many others see. what jealousy -the horse hasn't won anything 0-3 . If he wasn't B's brother you wouldn't be saying anything.Fact is he's just a horse with a famous brother with a lot less ability. Compared to this year's 3 year horses Derby bound he's not even close.MVH ,Amanda's pics are good enough for me and if you take a close look at the contenders you'll see what a muscular horse looks like.One other thing if this horse doesn't win next time out they should change trainers this guy Matz has been riding on the past glory of Barbaro his 1 and only claim to fame. He's nowhere near the trainer of a Baffert, Plechter, Frankel,[shiekie should have left Vineyard with him] Zito,Jones,Mclauglin,Assussen,Drysdale,O'Brien. I bet if any of those guys had been training Nic he would have already broken his maiden.There a lot of 1 hit wonder singers in music and as far as i'm concerned Matz is one as a trainer and a step below the ones I mentioned above. That's my  opinion.

he looks fine,which is the important thing.given a little more time, he may make a race horse.

Mary.  

I agree with you and Greg about FF but I have this little voice telling me that Chocolate Candy will win the Derby and FF will come in second.  Hmmmm  Greg let me know what your picks are for Nicky's next race.  I need gas money.  LOL

Well, Phantom, now you've gone and done it - stepped way over the line. The FOB's will be hurling Walter Farley books at you for daring to state your opinion about Matz.

BTW - I was wondering what this talk was about a wedding - went to the La Ville Rouge blog. Oh. My. God. If those of you posting to that are girls under the age of 16, then it's adorable. If not, well......

MVH,

What point are you trying to make by these pictures?

www.flickr.com/.../set-72157616605448755

www.flickr.com/.../set-72157616605448755

I see a horse that is on the light side.  Is he breezing on Lasix?  That will drop some weight off a horse as it is a diuretic.

I have thought for a while that he was a bit on the thin side.  Those pictures you posted show me a horse that is getting into the too-thin range.

I don't want a young horse heavy, but a horse dropping weight shows that he is not handling training.

The Phantom's observation about the horse's condition, while a bit blunter than necessary, is basically correct.  He looks like he's dropped a fair amount of weight.

Why is everyone so up in arms about this observation of his condition?  Keeping weight on racehorses can be a real challenge, and not a sign of mistreatment or poor training.

Based on how much weight he appears (in my eyes) to have lost, I wouldn't be expecting him to win his next time out.

Here are a few of Michael Matz's other "Claim To Fame" horses - Kicken Kris, Chelokee, Visionaire, Valbenny, Street Sounds, Round Pond, Sangrita, Herboriste, From Away, Political Attack, Ice Road, Hennigan, Crusader Rabbit and Ready Set.  Sorry if I have forgotten any other important names.  Just because Matz is more quiet and tends to stand away from the spotlight, does not make him any less the trainer than the other names mentioned above.  He just doesn't push and shove a horse to go where it doesn't belong or isn't ready.  Thanks.

LDP

I personally don't think The Phantom thinks of anything but saying negative things about Nicanor to upset everyone.  Nicanor is just fine and as beautiful as ever and we all know it.  :-)

He's such a beautiful boy!  Same eyes as his big brother - can't wait to see Barbaro's statue on Derby Day!  What's going on with Lentenor?  Any news?  I think Lentenor looks so much more like Barbaro - they are such beautiful horses.  Good bless them and keep them happy and healthy!!!

FYI,

    I don't make a habit of responding to comments that make little sense at all or to people that don't do there homework before posting a comment but here are a few facts:

1. It was stated about Nicanor:

"he gets so much time off between races"

Well, if you did your homework, go down the list of the top twenty Derby Contenders(I am NOT comparing Nicanor to the Derby Contenders, The comments were), Nicanor has raced three times(Jan 31., March 7, March 28), that includes grabbing a quarter in the first race, NOT one Derby contender in the top twenty raced their first three races in less then two months, so one comment debunked....

2.Another Comment Stated:

"Matz has been riding on the past glory of Barbaro his 1 and only claim to fame. He's nowhere near the trainer of a Baffert, Plechter, Frankel,[shiekie should have left Vineyard with him] Zito,Jones,Mclauglin,Assussen,Drysdale,O'Brien"

First, There is a thing called Spellcheck, lol...

Mr. Matz is a relative newcomer to the Thoroughbred training ranks, Has only been doing in since 1998, Now if you take all the names of the trainers that were mentioned, NONE of them has a better overall record in there first ten years of training...also winning the Derby is like winning the Super Bowl, I believe only three of the trainers that these comments mentioned have won the derby, that leaves 6 of the names mentioned having one less Derby winner then Mr. Matz...I don't know about anyone else, but in my book one Derby win is more then zero!

3.Lasty, Another comment stated:

"if this horse doesn't win next time out they should change trainers"

Well, This is my favorite comment, It is quite obvious that whoever said something like this, Honestly, Doesn't know the Jackson's(Lael) at all, I really could continue to reference this comment, but to people who know the Jackson's, They know what I mean, that comment lacks any common sense at all, it is laughable, lol !!!

So with that off my chest...

"Nicanor":

1st Race, Grabbed a quarter, stumbled out of gate, showed a burst of speed middle of race, pulled up by Prado, Throw out race to me...

2nd Race, Came in second to Custom for Carlos

3rd Race, Came in second to Glittermans Cartel

4th Race, ????

In my opinion, and alot of EXPERTS, Nicanor has shown great potential and will figure it out, and once he does, The Sky is the limit.....

JAJ, finally someone has the backbone to confirm what I see and say it.Funny how these people get so bent out of shape and defensive when you state a truthful opinion.

Lets see if they defend Matz as much.

Eventually he'll win and break his maiden the odds are in his favor and the competition at Keeland won't be as formidable plus I'm sure Matz be looking for a soft spot of first timers and multiple loss maiden's.That's good theory a win is the most important thing right now along with putting on some weight.

Joanne

I agree with you on the Lentenor thing.  Also the statue.  That will be one awesom day!  Beautiful bronze statue of Barbaro and Edgar right before the Derby. WOW it will be soooooo close to that finish line and it will be a big deal in the Kentucky Derby for a lot of people.  :-)  Good post!

The Jackson's always do things right.  They have chosen the names on special days and they have been wondeful with the fans in all of this.  They are the best owners a horse could ever have. :)

MLS

VERY well said!  

JAJ,

   All due respect, since you are experienced and educated in this sport, I agree with Brettzky99, in respect to his build, If you look at his pedigree, His bloodlines have never been so called "Heavy" horses, In my opinion, Nicanor is very defined, slight, but well put together, has a evenly curved back, lean, muscular body, and clean, long legs..I do think with his long legs that does give him a somewhat slight look to him, but when I was at his race down at gulfstream on March 7th, being ten feet away from him, He looked alot different then he does now(He still looked solid compared to the others in his race), it is amazing to me, in just 6 weeks since I saw him, how much more defined he has become, Just my opinion...

He looks great! Hope to see him race again soon!

Nicanor looks just beautiful in those pictures, thanks Amanda and Yetta.  To me he does look to have lost some weight but to me it doesnt matter because I love Nicanor and wish the best for him, mostly because of Barbaro and his family....... Love is wonderful....

Stardust  I'm happy you "Don't Think"- your blogs show  it , your the one who's miserable unless everyone bows down and sings praises of Nic- oh and if they don't and state a opinion you don't like its labeled  negative glad your not a judge! , I'm very happy and if you don't like my opinion as you said then skipover my blog.Maybe the horse will win his next time out as I said the odds are in his favor and I'll  congradulate him and connections his record so far speaks for itself,don't like what I say who cares, you and the other personal attackers don't run the blog a open minded person does!One other statement I'll make ALL horses are beautiful but that doesn't help their performance.

I don't know if Nicanor is underweight or not. But, if you look at Papa Clem's photo, you can count every one of his ribs. And it appears to me that Papa is nowhere near as big as Nicanor (unless it's just the picture angle). I also remember the first time I saw Stardom Bound race. I could not believe how skinny she looked.  I think at that time, she was still growing.  These horses look perfectly healthy to me and Michael Matz knows what an equine athlete in training should weigh - I'm not worried.  P.S. Although not as beautiful as Nicanor, that Papa Clem is sure pretty! Wish him the best in the Derby.

Nicanor will leave his own special mark on horse racing,just be patient.But Lentenor is the one that will heal all of us and maybe shut up all the nay sayers for awhile.Oh and Dynaformer may have been slim at one time,Nicanor is just growing right?

Greg J.Did you check the first 10 years of each of the trainers I mentioned wins [stakes]since I posted it if so where did you get it? obviously not that statement debunked.

What has Matz done since Barbaro?Can you name his stakes winners besides Barbaro?How many horses does he train?How many breeders cup has he won?Frankel  never won the Derby are you telling the world Matz is a better trainer?Haaaa that's would be a big  joke. He was and is a 1 hit wonder and so far and take a good look at all the derby winner trainers you'll see a lot of 1 hit wonders[remember Bud Delph Spec Bid?]So the Jackson's are giving this guy lifetime employment bravo they must not care about winning big races !Great potential lot of expert opinions where can I read them - in your dreams?

Your comments are just that with no backup.He is not as good as a trainer as any of those I mentioned 1 Derby doesn't make a career or give him more knowledge about training then those I mentioned. I believe they would have gotten better results. No spell checker so you got that one by the way don't cats have 9 lives?

I know this will never happen, but I wish that the Jacksons (Lael) and Michael Matz would submit something in their own defense.  It would be out of character for them to do so.  They really don't need to defend themselves to the negative comments, but it surely would be interesting.  For the people who "know so much" about how to train racehorses and know so much more about Nicanor than Matz and his team, I ask this...How many racehorses are you training and at what level of racing?  Are you making a living at training and, if so, how much?  I seriously doubt you have anything in training or you wouldn't have time to blog nor would you write all the negative comments about your colleagues.  Unless you would like to post some exceptional credentials, leave the work being done to the real professionals.

Nicanor won't be running at Keeneland on Saturday.  There is no race for him.  I don't know about Sunday.

MLS, I don't see any Breeders cup or big name horses on that list.He's not in the same class as a guy like Frankel,Baffert,Pletcher,O'Brien

I just believe he's not as good a trainer.

My Backup:

First,You are on a computer, computer's have the power to find out trainers records in a matter of seconds, if you actually knew anything about these trainers, rather then just read headlines, you might be inclined to KNOW what their records were for the start of their career, but then again, if you can't even SPELL their names correctly, that should have given me the the type of IQ I was dealing with....I KNOW their records(With the help of my computer and some past knowledge about them), And by knowing their records I can tell you a FACT, In their first ten years of training horses, Mr. Matz has a better winning percentage...A Fact.

Mr. Matz Stakes Winners:

First stakes winner was Camella,

His first grade 1 victories came with Kicken Kris, who captured the 2003 Secretariat Stakes and the 2004 Arlington Million.

he saddled Round Pond to win the Breeders’ Cup Distaff (now Ladies' Classic). Umm, Is that a Breeder's Cup....I think it is, lol...

Round Pond, who was retired following the Distaff, also won the 2005 Acorn Stakes and the 2006 Azeri Breeders’ Cup at Oaklawn Park.

Chelokee accounted for one of the more heartwarming moments of 2007 when he won the inaugural running of the Barbaro Stakes (formerly the Sir Barton) on Preakness Day at Pimlico . He also won the G3 Northern Dancer Breeders’ Cup at Churchill Downs in 2007.

Lael Stable’s Ready Set, who captured the 2008 G3 West Virginia Derby ...

Other stakes winners include 2008 G1 King's Bishop winner Visionaire, Street Sounds, Aunt Henny, Political Attack and Bowman’s Band.

Mr. Matz has 75 horses in his barn, is based at the Fair Hill Training Center in Elkton, Md.

Barbaro, only the sixth undefeated horse to win the Kentucky Derby, also won the Florida Derby, Holy Bull, Tropical Park Derby and Laurel Futurity for Matz.

Now Let's educate you on what type of background Mr. Matz has:

His Wife, Dorothy has deep roots in Thoroughbred racing. She is the daughter of breeder Helen Kleberg Groves and the granddaughter of Robert Kleberg, who owned King Ranch in Texas and raced 1946 Triple Crown winner Assault and 1950 Kentucky Derby winner Middleground. Her sister, Helen Alexander, owns Middlebrook Farm in Lexington, Ky.

Mr. Matz survived the crash landing of United Flight 232 after all of its hydraulic systems had failed over the farmlands of Iowa with 296 people aboard. They were on the way back home from a horse show judging in Hawaii when it became obvious that the plane was in trouble. After a horrific landing in which Matz was miraculously unscathed, he set about rescuing other survivors, including three children travelling unaccompanied.

Mr.Matz had a highly successful equestrian career as a show jumping rider. He was a six-time U.S. national champion, and won at least one major show jumping event in 20 consecutive years. Matz won team gold at the 1986 World Championships in Aachen riding Chef, to go with his individual and team bronze medals he won at the 1978 World Equestrian Championships while riding Jet Run. He also so won the 1981 Show Jumping World Cup on Jet Run. Matz has won a total of four gold medals and four bronze medals at the Pan American Games, and made Olympic teams in 1976, 1992, and 1996. In 1996, he won a team silver medal on Rhum IV, in the show jumping equestrian event, along with Peter Leone, Leslie Burr-Howard, and Anne Kursinski. Matz was also chosen to carry the United States flag into Centennial Olympic Stadium at the Closing Ceremonies of the 1996 Games. He retired from show jumping as the leading money-winning rider in the sport's American history, with over $1.7 million.

On April 1, 2006, Matz was inducted into the Show Jumping Hall of Fame.

He was named "Person of the Week" by ABC News for his heroism on Flight 232.

Matz has remained in touch with the three siblings, who were at Churchill Downs on Derby Day 2006, and met with him during the run-up to the race.

So, There you go, A little education(Which you seem to lack), and a little history lesson on the Character of a true hero, So, I do believe you have been debunked in everything you stated.

Let's See:

1.Mr. Matz had a better record then the other trainers you listed in their first ten years....CHECK!

2.Mr. Matz Stakes Winners(Other then Barbaro)...............CHECK!

3.The Number of horses he trains......................CHECK!

4.Breeder's Cup Winner......CHECK!

I think my words speak for themselves....enough said, I believe everyone who reads all these comments can get a good reflection on people's character, and I for one, appreciate this site, the caring remarks, racing knowledge, and education it provides people with into the inner workings of a particular horse, his siblings, his trainer, his jockey, his handlers, his owner, etc.

And, to sum it all up, You have a cold, shallow soul...

Your last comment:

"by the way don't cats have 9 lives?"

You write that when a person on this blog wrote up above that she has to put her sick cat down this week....

That says it all...

I feel sorry for you...

        The Phantom:

  Lay Off Michael Matz!!!

We love Barbaro and we love his brothers. Enough said of the ugly comments of mm.

peace brother!!!!!

Phantom,

Really going out on limb suggesting Matz doesn't have the records of the trainers you aforementioned.  Obviously, as a thoroughbred trainer he is not at that level, but it also brutally obvious that he has a different business and training model, also.  It is rare for Matz to even take on or run claiming level horses; he is notably conservative with a less populated barn, and most of his conditioned entries are allowance, stakes, and special weights.  I have a ton of respect for Steve Asmussen, but a huge component to his model is to win with class droppers (don't get me wrong he has signicant earnings with stakes level talent also.

)  Matz isn't a Wesley Ward hitting it hard with summer 2 year olds (not criticizing, but pointing out different models.)  Frankel has trained for Lael before, but most of the horses go to Tagg or Matz, who tend to bring them along gradually.  To insist Matz is another Baffert of Nick Zito isn't realistic.  However, it is also irrefutable that he trained the most dominant KD winner in 60 years, period.  Nicanor is not Barbaro, but don't fall out of your chair if he becomes a stakes winner either.

If Nick is going to race this weekend it will have to be on Sunday as he is not listed through Saturdays races, only see Hennigan in the 10th on Saturday as well as Tejida in the 9th.

Michale Matz has won the Breeders Cup Distaff, the King Bishops Stakes, West Virginia Derby, the Barbaro Stakes

Phantom, Matz has 75 horses in his barn.  His horses have been in the money 37% this year. He's had many stakes winners.

thank you for the beautiful pictures of nicanor!he is a beauty period.he looks very happy and healthy and that is all that really matters! i wish him the best.he hasn't asked to be compared to his brother..i am fairly certain he doesn't even know who he is..why can't we all just appreciate nicanor for who he is? one beautiful horse!

"Hmmmm  Greg let me know what your picks are for Nicky's next race.  I need gas money.  LOL"

Gee Stardust, I thought you were only wagering "for the horses" ... do they need gas money too?

Raise your hand if you think Stardust hit the exacta on Nicanor's last race, AND hit the trifecta on the Arkansas Derby... Summer Bird at 26-1? Give me a break...

Oh wait - I just read the post that said YOU HAD WIN WILLY FOR THE SUPERFECTA!! Man, you must be rolling in it now! And I may or may not mean dough...

Nicky is indeed a beautiful colt! He also appears to enjoy the camera and looks great in training. Thanks for the photos! We really enjoy them.

forums.delphiforums.com/.../messages

Looks like muscles to me!

I think Nic looks just fine for this point of his career! Such a beautiful guy! Dynaformer and LVR do good work!!!!

MVH, my thoughts are with you. Having been there, I offer my support and sympathy.

Phantom, cats do not have nine lives. I've lost too many of them on their first go through to believe that old bologney! I wish, so that some of my friends would still be with me!

let's see, Matz, an olympic medal winning equestrian (and who carried the American flag at the closing of the Atlanta games) not a first rate trainer?. He can train any horse I own, that's for sure.

Wow Julien Leparoux was up! That has to be a good thing.

MLS,  Your wrong about Dynaformer. He is the Biggest stallion at Three Chimneys. Dynaformer is 17 hands and weighs in at a whopping 1500 pounds. There is a video up on youtube of him in his paddock at the farm during a tour, The tour guide is telling the group that indeed Dynaformer is quite large and has a nasty disposition. Ive heard he once took off a grooms finger.

One Derby?  How bout a Breeders cup win ? How bout the innaugeral Barbaro stakes. While i agree that MM is a relative newcomer to training race horses, he has, without a doubt, a lifetime of experience with horses. Have you forgotten that he medaled in the Olympics ? Matz trans for others besides Leal and Leal has horses with other trainers, mainly Barkley Tagg. So, If you think Leal sends their horses to Matz out of some sense of mistaken gratitude for getting thier Barbaro to the Kentucky Derby winners circle, you are deluding yourselves. The fact is, the Jacksons think MM is a fine trainer and i think they are right. Phantom mentioned other trainers, that oversee more prolific stables. Asmussen, Pletcher..sure they have high profile winners in their barns, so what. It makes them no better then MM, In fact, im willing to bet that the horses in their barns get a whole lot less one on one attention then the horses in Matz's barn. When is the last time Matz was charged with a medication violation ? What about Pletcher or Asmussen (who ive met and he never once looked me in the eye) Sorry, but i dont trust people who cant look me in the eye. Oh by the way, Phantom, a lot of the women who post on this blog are involved with horses on a daily basis, you spend 6 hours a day chasing horses around and cleaning up after them... YOU ARE SKINNY !  lol

Thank you for the updates and pictures!  They are so uplifing and bringing us smiles.  The horses are beautiful! I too like the last photo! God Bless Nicanor and keep him healthy!

I can't wait for more!

MVH, you are right; Nicanor does look a lot like the European horses. Also, the main Euro races are turf, and, if I am correct, the Dynaformer kids are normally excellent turf horses. I think maybe they should try Nic on turf, but Matz is his trainer and I'm not, and Matz knows what he's doing. I'd love to see Leparoux on Nic in a race, I think they'd do well together. Great pics, and thanks for keeping the blog updated for all us Nicanor groupies =]

Concerned Fan,

      FYI, I posted this BEFORE the Arkansas Derby on another blog to Stardust:

Stardust,

       Good Job on hitting your bets, I have a gut feeling that, "Quality Road" will be scratched due to his quarter crack just a hunch, but hope I am wrong, Also I will give you a tip....Arkansas Derby....Win Willy, Old Fashioned, Papa Clem(Don't know which order, though), Also, Watch out for "Summer Bird"....

Greg J. 08 Apr 2009 10:23 AM

I did hit the tri with summer bird, I took win willy off, SO yes I do Believe her..

Also,

  This was posted by me before Nicanor's last race:

   Also FYI, Kent Desormeaux is on Glittermans Cartel (KD rode Custom for Carlos, Which won Nic's last race). I Hope Nic learned enough last race to listen, rate, clean break,  RUN LIKE THE WIND.....

Also, Hennigan, Another M.Matz trained horse, is racing in Race 12(MSM)(6/1 Odds), on same day...

Good Luck to Michael, Jose, The Jackson's, And of Course NICANOR !!!

Greg J. 26 Mar 2009 10:28 AM

At least I had the exacta box($50), I knew Kent would be a factor(He beat Nicanor last time on "Custom for Carlos", Who, By the Way, Came in third in the Swale, A Grade Two Stakes Race!), Also M.Matz Had Hennigan come in second by a neck also!, And lastly, Congrats to Roy & Gretchen Jackson(Lael Stables), Mr. Tagg(Trainer), P.Lopez(Jockey) for their Beautiful Winning Chestnut Filly, "Dwelling Place" for Winning race 7(MSW) at Gulfstream !!, Nicanor will Follow her lead.......

Greg J. 29 Mar 2009 11:19 AM

*I believe Stardust 100 percent...

LOL  

Amanda.  Quite the debate going on here.  IMO I feel that MM is THE best trainer in this country.  Also, IMO I feel that Nicanor and the Barbaro family are the best horses in this country.  

Yeah I do well in wagering (this year it is cause I am going with Greg LOL).   It does get addicticing doesn't it Greg when you make a lot of money wagering.  Of course the horses need gas money. They aren't walking from Florida to Kentucky, they are riding in the horse caldalac of the road (big time gas guzzler)!! :-)

Greg j.

I have been going with you on these races and you have done very very well with hitting these exotic wagers.  I am really into this again now and with the TC coming up, I want a 6!  I will never forget when I hit th 5 with Rags at the Belmont and hit 3400 bucks off of a 2 dollar wager.  That was awesome.  Ever since then, seemed to do a lot better with those types of wagers.  When you have a 8 horse field, it isn't that hard to hit a 2.40 superfecta.  Usually they don't have fields that small for that wager but man when I find one, I go 4 it.  :-)  I asked you some things in another place.  :-)

Mary

Do you think MM will enter Nicanor as an undercard in the Derby?  Greg???????

Greg J.  Wonderful history lesson there about Michael Matz.  I didn't know some of those things. Yeah he is the best in my book.  Loves life and is such a positive caring man.  My Lord.  Just think if all humans were like him.  Wouldn' that be nice.  Peace on Earth.  

MVH wrote:

"forums.delphiforums.com/.../messages

Looks like muscles to me!"

That deep groove down the back legs is called a "poverty line."  It is indication of a horse being underweight, NOT an example of muscles.

Correcting myself, Hennigan and Tejida are racing on Friday not Saturday.  Saturday Maraschino Red in the 5th, Full Charge in the 6th, Trensa in the 7th,  Hamsa  also and Pitched Perfectly in the 9th. As for our BELOVED naysayers I will say this again. Please don't let them get to you, the more you refute what they have to say gives them more fuel to keep it up. Just bite your tongues and dismiss what they have to say.  

lobieb  :-)  Good post.  Words on a PC screen.  I chose to take in the positive.  The negative just makes me laugh at the shallowness of the minds behind the posts.  

Barbaro, Nicanor, Lentenor, LVR, Dynaformer we love you!!!! ♥♥♥♥♥♥♥

Stardust,

      No, I hope he isn't entered on undercard of Derby...

Way too much for Nicanor, For a still learning horse, a little immature, and still trying to figure it out, Their will be 100,000 people there, I just think that isn't the way Matz would want it, He has worked at Keeneland, so I am still holding out for this Sunday, But after that, There really isn't anything that suits him for remaining races in the Keeneland meet, So, I am still saying Sunday, Will be the Day, I have been wrong before though.!

lobieb,

       You are right, But I couldn't resist, and Maybe Just Maybe, I educated this Naive person, But I doubt it...., lol

JAJ,

I hear everyone talking about Nicanor being thin, slender, skinny, etc., etc., etc. And not to take or give Mr. Phantom anything as I still believe photographs distort the subject, and he may or probably is wrong, but for the novices out there like  me, what would be the ideal weight for a horse like Nicanor and where do you think his weight stands now? And how does one get a horse to finish his dinner and or breakfast if he is not doing so?

And I call Phantom Mr. because I am a nice person and I believe he is also; a few times a year anyway. And the word The is way overused. And that is coming from a person who loves the word the.

JAJ, there were a lot of "underweight" horses at Keeneland this morning, if that  "Poverty Line" explanation is true.  

All reports about Nicanor in person are that he is fine and very muscular.  He will fill out in time, and will race to win in time, then there will be no more criticism, hopefully.  We love him no matter what he does or doesn't do.

Now, is the youngest one all right, Amanda?  This has grown alarming.  No report, no photos, no sightings.  Can anyone tell us any news?  Will we ever see photos of him?

mdfanofracing,

Sorry that I didn't explain myself more clearly which led to some confusion.  Dynaformer is a big 17 hand horse and weight appropriate.  What I meant is that he is more on the slim slide in terms of width.  As a stallion and at his age, he is still not a hefty horse.  His lousy temperament is widely known.  I don't know if this is true, but I have always heard that foals have a tendency to take more after the dam in terms of temperament.  I had a horse by Cure The Blues that, luckily, had his dam's mind.  Cure was just plain MEAN!  The Dynaformer boys out of La Ville Rouge apparently have good attitudes.  People who have been interviewed who work with these horses all speak highly of their good sense and good manners.  If the "finger" story is true, I pity the poor person.  Thanks.

You're right, MVH.  I think many of us have grown concerned about the youngest LVH foal.  The absence of follow-up information is a bit alarming.  

I know everyone is busy, and we are lucky to have access to information from you Amanda, Bloodhorse, the owners, trainers, and all concerned, but I'm sure they acknowledge that our passion, involvemement and commitment is only positive for the industry too.  

So without pressing on your, and their, good graces too much, could you be kind enough to inform us at your convenience of the health of the new baby.

And, of course, Lentenor as well!

With great appreciation . . .

I know I read that w/ big foals, cracked ribs are not uncommon.  Does anyone know if this type of problem has occured in any of LVR other foals?  

Does anyone know if the foal's infection responded well to the antibiotics?

I also was hoping for April 19, but I do not see him entered.  I guess it will be something at Churchill Downs.  Bummer!

OK  Greg I tend to agree with you.  Nicanor is a slow bloomer.  I am just thankful that he is with Matz.  My Lord he would be running a heck of a lot more if he wasn't.  Matz rocks!  

Kathy,

You are right, photographs can distort the subject, but what I have seen in the photographs is an apparent drop in weight.  That is not a good sign.  Not the end of the world, but not the way you want a horse to be going.

Weight is an indicator of how well a horse is doing in the training program.  There are a kazillion reasons a horse may drop weight.  Here is a partial list:

There are the obvious reasons such as injury or illness.  Ulcers are a big problem in racehorses.  They don't know all the facts of why horses develop ulcers--it can be diet, stress or drugs like bute.  A horse that is trained/raced too hard (for that particular individual) will back out of a feed tub.  Unfortunately, you only know you have crossed the line after you've crossed it.  Some horses don't cope with the stresses of being on the racetrack and will lose weight.

Unfortunately, there aren't too many ways to get a horse to eat up his dinner.  Obviously, you feed him food he likes and you don't add supplements he doesn't like to the feed.

You can try to reduce his stress by backing off.  Sometimes sending them back to the farm for a few weeks does a world of good for them.  Unfortunately, once they are race fit, they are a danger to themselves if turned out.

We have no idea what is really going on with Nicanor.  I believe that Matz is one of the better trainers for dealing with a horse's stress based on some of the comments he has made in the past.  Weight is something that is managed and not something I would worry about.  He looks really good in the pictures.

I have absolutely no idea what Nicanor's ideal weight should be.  Personally, I would want Nicanor to be on the light side.  His front looks as if it could be prone to injury if he is not taken care of--so less weight is better.

MVH, yes, you will see a lot of drawn horses at the races.  Many of the trainers pull food from their horses either the night before or first thing in the morning.  Then, several hours before a race, they will give them Lasix which is a diuretic.  At the same time the Lasix is given, the water is pulled.  The horse will urinate out gallons and gallons and gallons before he is walked over to the saddling area.  The horse you see before a race will definitely look thinner than the same horse looked the day before.  I am basing my observations on a horse, Nicanor, that hasn't been drawn down for a race.  It is the drop in weight that is troubling--but not the end of the world, either.

FYI,  

    I just checked Sunday at Keeneland, No Nicanor, So if he is alright, then it looks like onto Churchill Downs it is....

(Keeneland's current meet closes Friday, and there are no races that fit Nicanor during the week)(Don't think it will be the day of the Derby though, too crazy that day for Nicanor!)

Stardust, I agree with Greg, way too much for Nicanor.  Also, he won't be running Sunday at Keeneland.

One More Try:

    I see two options for Nicanor's next race, Since Keeneland is out, How about either:

Churchill:

1.Friday, May 1, Race 2, MSW, 1 1/16 Mile Race....

OR

2.Saturday, May 2, Race 2, MSW, 1 1/16 Mile Race....

*I am probably wrong(lol), BUT I would prefer to see him race Friday, Due to the Fact Derby Day will be INSANE...

Also,

    Great Tribute to a Great Champion:

www.bloodhorse.com/.../derby-museum-to-hold-barbaro-tribute

As far as I can see from the starts he is not racing Sunday either and have no idea what is co ming up for races next week before Keenland closes.

MLS,

I understand what your saying, I guess its just hard to think of a 1500 pound thoroughbred as slender. But, In comparison to the likes of AP Indy & Storm Cat and even to some extent, Unbridleds Song these days, yea I guess Dynaformer would be considered "thinner" then the three mentioned above.

I am reaching out to all the horse lovers.  There is a contest for a 1 million dollar makeover and Angel Haven Horse Rescue is one of the finalist.  They are currently in last place for votes.  I am begging everyone to follow the link and vote - PLEASE.  Also pass on to everyone you know.  Lets help these horse that were headed to slaughter.  Doesn't cost you a thing but a little time to vote.  Thanks.

www.zootoo.com/.../intro

Greg J -

REDBOARD

Horse Racing Dictionary

1) Old-time method of declaring a race official, by posting a red flag or board on the tote board. ****2) A mildly derogatory phrase used to describe someone who claims to have selected the winner, but always after the race.****

Here is the exchange between you regarding the Ark. Derby:

Greg J.  AND Greg is right AGAIN!  ****I actually forgot about your picks yesterday and wagered on those three anyway.****  They did HIT.  My loss was my 2 dollar ticket to win on OF.  The Tri sure did pay good and the exacta box cause Pappa Clem WON!   Nice race but the injury sucks.  

Summer Bird was in my trifecta.  That horse really flew.  ****I hit the exacta and tri.****  I feel so bad for Old Fashion.  He is not going to the Derby.  IMO he was run too much and now he is in the hospital.  Should have had a long break before the Derby IMO.  I hope he heals OK.  :-(

stardust 12 Apr 2009 12:01 PM

SHE SAID SHE HIT THE EXACTA AND THE TRIFECTA.

THEN YOU SAID:

Stardust,

  Arkansas Derby, NICE!(Except, of course, Old Fashioned being injured), I Had Papa Clem, Old Fashioned,  Summer Bird $24.00 Trifecta Box, It paid $1100.00!!!, ****I decided too drop Win Willy(Can you imagine if I kept him on for the Superfecta?, It would have paid $2000.00 for a $2.00 wager, Oh well!)****

New Tip For You....

Freisan Fire, General Quarters, Chocolate Candy...My New Trifecta for the Derby....It could change though, lol....

Greg J. 13 Apr 2009 2:56 PM

IT WASN'T UNTIL THIS POINT THAT SHE THREW IN THE FOLLOWING:

****Greg I DID have Win Willy in my superfecta!!!!!!!  It was the 2.40 superfecta.  I couldn't belive it.****  Summer Bird was running good!  The only thing I didn't hit was the win.  I had OF on that.  

OK what about Square Eddie?  I think Pappa Clem and FF will hit the board.  Of course I really do think and always have that Chocolate Candy will win the Derby.  Something is bugging me about that.   Has been for quite a while.  :)

stardust 14 Apr 2009 10:56 AM

If I hit the EXACTA, the TRIFECTA, and the SUPERFECTA, especially on a 26-1 longshot Show, I would be screaming at the top of my lungs, especially to the person who gave me the tip! How come the SUPERFECTA is an AFTERTHOUGHT?

REDBOARDING AT ITS FINEST! Like I said, "Rolling in it..."

That line down Nicanor's back leg, I've always associated with a certain muscling.  Maybe not Bold Ruler in Nicanor's case, but...

www.spiletta.com/.../boldruler.html

.... Bull Hancock found his offspring to share a unique trait:

   "You can pick the Bold Rulers out on their conformation. I see the same musculature as Nasrullah. They all had an extra layer of muscle beside their tail running down to their hocks. It is a good sign when you see it in a Bold Ruler. It means strength and speed."

That grandget of Mr. Prospector I had had it, it's quite common in Quarter Horses, and really, need to look at a shot of the horse standing still to see if it's really there or not.

From this shot:

forums.delphiforums.com/.../messages

From what you can see of them, you don't see ribs, he's smooth and well padded over the point of the hip, and that line down the middle of his back to his tail is a slight dip- underweight horses don't make a dip there, anything but.

He may look like a "slighter" horse but nothing that can be called skinny, IMHO.  Horses can be like kids, they go throw growth phases, kinda out and up, out and up.  Had a weanling who looked like a tank but when it was three, I wondered if the youngster would ever take after any of that tank  it had as a weanling!

Maybe we're too used to seeing thoroughbreds these days that resemble Quarter Horses more than some Quarter Horses do.

Thank you so much for the pictures of our beloved Nicky.  The last two are stunning. What a beautiful boy.

very sweet-loooking boy

good luck, nicky......

Dynaformer is probably enjoying the fact he produces Grade 1 winners and is getting up there in age,so he doesn't need to be so slim as long as the mares find him attractive?I think his temperament is transferred to his offspring in a good way.

FYI,

   Congrats to Mr. Matz, Once Again, For "Artisan" Winning yesterday at Keeneland(Race 6, MSW)

Also,

    He will have "Tejida" going today at Keeneland in Race 9, The Doubledogdare $100,000 Stakes Race(Grade 3), He has Julien Leparoux(Who is on Nicanor up above!) riding him in post #1...

Also,

    "Hennigan"(Pictured above), Will be going in Race #10(MSW) today at Keeneland, Going to be tough, though, He drew Poast #12...

Good Luck & Be safe !!!

Here are some more examples of that "line" down the hind end of some horses.  I would disagree with the term "poverty line."  

The mare Balance has it and you can see the beginnings of it on her baby:

www.bloodhorse.com/.../grade-i-winner-balance-foals-a-colt

You can see the same thing on Rachel Alexandra:

www.bloodhorse.com/.../oaks-rachel-alexandra-zips-through-work

Somethingroyal, dam of Secretariat (click on picture icon):

www.pedigreequery.com/somethingroyal

Hoist The Flag:

www.thoroughbredtimes.com/.../hoisttheflag.pdf

I think in Bold Ruler's case, Hancock may have meant that the Bold Ruler line tended to have more muscling behind that line.  It's not uncommon and will show up more in a fit, muscled toned horse.

Here are the areas I look at first for underweight:

extension.missouri.edu/.../g02837.htm

(Caveat, I was looking for the conformation points guide, disregard the horse pictured- not my idea of a good example)

13- crest

14- withers

17- point of shoulder

35- point of hip

49- croup

50- point of buttock

Generally, those areas will start showing bone or a very angular look and then you are in trouble.

Sometimes, when a horse is racing fit, you can see the ribs a bit and I think that can be more a matter of the way the horse is built when everything else looks OK.

Have you ever seen a long distance runner that looked anything but "skinny?"  

Nicanor is not underweight.  He may not be carrying as much extra fat as he needs, we don't know.  We also don't know if he's in an "up" growth phase or whether his natural muscling is not to have the Quarter Horse type body builder build- so much the better, IMHO.

Here's a champion who would maybe considered underweight by today's standards- but he's racing fit in this picture (click on photo icon):

www.pedigreequery.com/count+fleet

And when Count Fleet was retired, he still seemed slight by today's, Quarter Horse-type thoroughbreds:

www.racingmuseum.org/.../horse.asp

So many factors to keep in mind including the horse's natural build.  Count Fleet seemed to have no trouble getting the triple crown.

He is looking good and a hotty at the same time.I will be watching him.I also hope he becomes a great racehorse.

LOVE these photos. I would love to purchase the action photo of these two running together. Anyone know how I can do that? I would like to frame it and put it in my thoroughbred room. Thanks! Nicanor is a beauty...... they all are.

I know the truth sometimes hurts but the Phantom is right, this horse needs to fill out a bit and probably will....

All horses mature at different rates. Anyone that knows anything about horses knows this. That is why some horses do so much better as 4 year olds. Quality Road is 17 hands...and I have heard Rachel Alexandra is 17 hands or close to it. They are no different than us really. Eventually Nic will come into his own. He is still a baby. Actually he looks like he would make a beautiful hunt seat horse.

Greg, you did a fine job defending MM. Matz has forgotten more about horses than most people will ever know. Some people put a lot of weight on "status". Clearly they think that you have to be named Baffert, Lucas, Zito (just to name a few) to be a good trainer. That's like saying Carrie Underwood couldn't sing before she became famous. Duh.

Here are a few more photos of Nicanor at Keeneland, some I haven't seen yet.  Apologies if these are duplicated elsewhere:

www.photosbyz.com/albums.php

I'd like a little larger shot of Nicanor being bathed with his blanket off but it's the best full on shot I've seen so far.

Thank you for the beautiful pictures.  Our Nicky is so handsome.  I loved the last one.  He looks very sure of himself just like his big brother.  

Thank you so much for this blog.  It means more to me and to the whole Barbaro community than anyone knows.   It has helped me do some healing from barbaro's loss.

Nicanor is beautiful.

Each pic shows more of his beauty.

It is impossible to compare Nicanor to Derby-bound horses. Why? Because he's not Derby-bound. He's still a developing horse that is further behind the horses going to the Derby. Some horses develop slower than others. He's going to go through periods where he's on the leaner-side. You can trust a man like Michael Matz to be keeping a careful eye on his horses. If Nic needed more weight on him, Matz would be working on it. I am curious to know where people are seeing this "poverty line" unless they have seen Nic in person, I don't see any recent pictures that would give you a close enough look to see it. And to get some information out there, the poverty line is the line created between the semitendinosus and biceps femoris muscles which act to retract the hind limb. A Google search can show you where this is, but it would be higher up on the hind legs, closer to the hindquarters. A well defined poverty line can be an indicator of a fit horse. Many Thoroughbreds do have "poverty lines" and it's not necessarily a bad thing. My hunter/jumper TB I had would have a very well-defined poverty line during our show seasons, and maintained a healthy weight. Don't be too quick to assume Nic is underweight. Keep in mind that he still has some growing up to do. Have you ever seen a dog grow up and mature? Sometimes they get skinny/fat and hit a growth spurt. Horses can be the same way.

Any word on when Nicanor is racing next?  

So Stardust, did you have the Advice/Conservative/Square Eddie/Masala super in the Lexington?

Got this from ABR.  

4/29/09 4:30 - 5 p.m. ESPN Classic - Derby Heartbreakers

4/30/09 ESPN Classic

4 p.m. Run for the Roses, 1960s

4:30 p.m. Run for the Roses, 1970s

5/1/09 ESPN Classic

4 p.m. Run for the Roses, 1980s

4:30 p.m. Run for the Roses, 1990s

*5/1/09 ESPN has dropped Kentucky Oaks coverage as well as the Derby draw held earlier in the week (WAVE-3 in Louisville & WLEX-18 in Lexington provide coverage, as well as HRTV)

5/1/09 5-6 p.m. Bravo - Oaks Day and Susan G. Komen For the Cure

5/1/09 6 a.m. - 8 p.m. Turner Classic Movies will run old horse movies all day.

6 a.m. Sporting Blood

7:30 a.m. Racing Lady

8:45 a.m. Thoroughbreds Don't Cry

10:15 a.m. Pride of the Bluegrass

11:30 a.m. Harrigan's Kid

1:00 p.m. Story of Seabiscuit

2:45 p.m. A Girl in Every Port

4:30 p.m. Fast Company

6 p.m. Glory

5/2/09 12 p.m. - 3 p.m. ESPN -

Today at the Kentucky Derby

5/2/09 3 - 5 p.m. ESPN - Kentucky Derby Special (Woodford Reserve Turf Classic, Humana Distaff, Churchill Downs S, Eight Belles S, CD Turf Mile S)

5/2/09 5 p.m NBC - Kentucky Derby

5/16/09 4:30 - 5 p.m. ESPN Classic - Thoroughbred Classics, Preakness Stakes

www.bloodhorse.com/.../derby-museum-to-hold-barbaro-tribute

I rest my case on the fame and love for this family of horses!

Greg J.

Never underestemate G Gomez LOl.  Boy what a race.  

www.bloodhorse.com/.../advice-pulls-15-1-shocker-in-lexington

Did you hit anything?  

Carly...

NOPE!

Thanks, Amanda. Good to hear there are no surprises.  

I am sure you can understand not just my, but many bloggers and FOB's interest in the void of that particular news.  But yes, the racing season is an incredible demand on all your time.  Great to hear there is nothing negative however -- I think everyone interested in racing is sensitive to the casualties that can happen at any level -- even the most benign.  

Your acknowledgement of NO bad news at least is reassuring.  Thanks for that, Amanda.

Concerned Fan

I did not have Win Willy on the 2.00 super.  I had him on the 2.40 super.  BIG DIFFERENCE!  I don't really count wagers like that.  But go ahead and keep on digging.  You are making a complete jerk of yourself and you are most likely not welcome here but hey we gotta have someone trying to ruin things don't we.  Life wouldn't be normal without a Black sheep.  :-)

Amanda.  From what I know of the Jacsons, they like to suprise people.  They always do the coolest things on the best days.  Maybe they are just waiting until THEY feel it would be the best time to introduce the baby.  Maybe Barbaro's B-day?  Just a thought.  They are wonderful people and they love their fans........ :-)

See our boy had another work today so looks like we will probably see him at Churchill instead of Keenland. He may not even race the week of the Derby, maybe after it is all said and done, but regardless he will race at some point before heading home to Fair Hill or else Michael might take him to NY.

PS. Think he will still race in or around the Preakness on an undercard.

Yes, Stardust, *I'M* the black sheep... keep telling yourself that... keep making up stories about winning longshot superfectas while you're at it.

REDBOARD

Horse Racing Dictionary

1) Old-time method of declaring a race official, by posting a red flag or board on the tote board. ****2) A mildly derogatory phrase used to describe someone who claims to have selected the winner, but always after the race.****

Concerned Fan,

     I don't what to tell you, I know what I hit and so does my wallet, lol....I generally believe people at their word, You have some valid points, though...

Well Greg

I wouldn't have hit nuttin if I hadn't listened to you.  :)

OK I am going to claim a wager that I hit 2 years ago.  I hit the 3 pick on the Belmont.  Everyone knows I hit the 5 but I also hit the 3 and I never talk about that.  It wasn't a big deal.  Sometimes believe it or not, I hit a lot of wagers on these races.  A LOT!

Greg CF is really a demon on this board LOL.  I guess they are everywhere.  Pictures tell a lot.  :)

Greg J, I am not doubting your word at all, you are the one who gave your picks. Stardust claims she FORGOT ABOUT your picks and chose them anyway, and THEN only mentions including Win Willy after you said you didn't. That is where the doubt lies. In regard to Nicanor's last, she HATES KD (because he cheats), yet she bet Glittermans Cartel anyway. Did he cheat good enough for ya, Stardust?

First she claims she doesn't wager at all, then when called on it, she claims she "only wagers for the horses," and then she asks you for your picks because she needs gas money! She already has a history of "fantasizing" with me on another board so I have every reason in the world to doubt her make-believe superfecta hits.

Stardust, everyone knows you *say* you hit the 5 on the Belmont. What pictures are you talking about? LACK of pictures tells a lot too - you can say whatever you want as long as there's no way to have to prove it. Pony up proof (sdpokey@hotmail.com) and I'll leave this board.

C Fan

I used to wager all the time.  I did really well.  When I hit the wager on Eight Belles and BB, I quit.  THEN I started again this year.  Not that any of this is your buiseness but that is the way of it.  I hit those 2.40 superfectas all the time.  They don't pay much.  They are fun if the field is small.  Not that that is any of your buisiness.  Pictures?  Where do you want me to start?  There was a day that you everyone posted pictures of themselves.  There was also a day where people put down Barack. There was also a day where people lost a lot of information.  There was some times when trainers were being accused of drugging their horses.  I have all of that on DVD.  :-)  Good day........

Hahahahahahaha I know what pictures and threads I saved.  A lot of data  there.  :-)  I also know what I did and did not hit.  This is just too funny that there would be someone that even cares! LOL

By the way, it's not the fact that you wager - I could care less. It's that your story changes every time you get caught in a fabrication - first you don't wager, then when you get called on it, you say you do wager, but you do it "for the horses," then you do it because you "need the gas money." The betting itself isn't the issue, but you already know that.

A second "by the way" - I am not ashamed of anything I wrote on the other forum. I have nothing to hide and will continue to freely express my opinions, whether you like them or not.

Concerned Fan

It is up to anyone to change their minds anytime they want to.  There was a time when I did wager a lot.  There was a time when I didn't.  I always donate toward the horses as much as I can every month.  It really truly is none of your buiseness what I do with my life.  If I hit a 6 for a half a million and decide not to donate any of that money, that is my decision.  If I decided to quit again, that is also my decision.  My story doesn't change.  My life changes.  I do different things all the time :)

Oh yeah a second for you too.  People stories usually do change in life because "they" change. LOL.  Just because someone does something one day, does not mean they will do it always.  I change my mind a lot.  Wagering is one of those things that I have started up and stopped many many times.  I do have an addiction to it and that is one of the reasons that I quit at times that I do.  :)  ATWA = EARTH DAY be Happy!

My life changes all the time too - it totally sucks right now for reasons you could never understand - I just choose not to fabricate things about it to make it seem better. My story does not change depending on my audience, like yours seems to. It is what it is.

You can wager till the cows come home and do whatever you want with your alleged earnings, it makes no difference to me - but when you come here and act all noble "I'm doing it FOR THE HORSES!!" and in the next breath, you are wagering for "gas money," it sounds really disengenuous. There are a lot of good people here doing a lot of good things for animals (Ragsy comes to mind), and I would trust her to follow through much more readily than you.

Concerned Fan

I don't care what you think of me and I never will.  :)  You are funny.  

The horses always get donation money from me whether I wager or not.  Hard for a person like you to believe cause my belief is that you don't do it at all.  :)

CF.  The gas money was a joke.  Of course I donate toward the horses.  My story has to change depending on my audience which is really something that you would never understand.  I don't want to argue with you anymore and so lets just "Let it Be"  ATWA  :-)

CF, You are currently involved in a "battle of wits" with an unarmed person! It's very telling that anywhere Stardust/WAW post, trouble begins to brew! Many people from another forum were crushed when she caused precious threads to be deleted and now she is bragging and laughing about the loss and her having them hostage! I hope I get to meet her someday, I want to pay her what is owed to her! Anyone here who believes her "not-so-well thought out lies", I have ocean front property for sale in Arkansas! Please call:The Story Always Changes When Caught In A BIG LIE!!!

Hey all..

This site is suppposed to be about the Barabro boys. How about not putting each other down and lets get back on subject. I don't bet and never will. I just love the horses and am amazed at how beautiful they are and what athletics they are.

Did you all read that Babynor has had surgery? We should be focusing  our attention on more important things. Hopefully Amanda will keep us updated on his progress.

Don't mean to hurt anybodys feelings but it's getting tiressome reading all the put downs. Can't believe it's all getting entered.

Hope everyone has a nice day...

Nicanor have a wonderful time and remember I love you dearly.  You are one special horse to me and always will be.  

♥♥♥Nicanor♥♥♥

Lou

Thanks. You are right.  

C B-W

If people were a little nicer to me, I would have not a problem providing them with the "lost" information.  That was deleted because of YOU not me.  I just was smart enough to save it so that it could be recovered if ever needed. :-)

This day is about Barbaro.  Hey today is his day at Churchill.  

Wonder if bloodhorse is going to cover this.  

C B-W  I  am not un-named.  My name is Rose.  You will never meet me.  I travel too much.  However, I would be happy to provide the information but not to people that trash me.  :-)

HiYaaa Stardust, its been awhile, hows all!!!! Sure is pretty here with all of the watches and warning ongoing just love the horses dontcha. Rose as a name is just what Barbaro had on his back, wow, isnt that great and its my name too..... Love ya Stardust, sure am waiting for the night to gaze upon them!!!!hang tough!!!!  

Ragsy. Hi there.  Have you been to the wedding blog lately?  You know they are going to be married in about a month.  We haven't done much there.  

These naysayers are mad at me cause they are a bunch of teenage kids that have nothing better to do that put people down.  I am fine.  They woudn't even be here if it wasn't for me.  They hate Barbaro and the FOB's.  That was made very clear in past posts.  

I am doing good.  Miss Barbaro today and I am making another video for him today.  :-)

Good to hear from ya Stardust: the weather is not good here so I wont be around for a while, Love Barbaro Forever and will never look back to the Preakness and anyone that thinks Bernadine could have beat Barbaro really is not looking forward....

ALL FOR THE LOVE OF BARBARO,TODAY,TOMORROW AND FOREVER

Ragsy and the rest that GET IT!

nbcsports.msnbc.com/.../30418485

This tops them all!

Stardust, that is a beautiful story about Barbaro.  He was such a lovely horse.  Barbaro did have a spirtual and mystical presense about him.  Has anyone seen "Seabiscuit, the Lost Documentary".  The same thing was said about Seabiscuit.  But he was also a minunderstood horse, until Howard and Smith got a hold of him.

Mary.  Thanks.  I just made this for our beautiful boy.  He is truly amazing.  I do have that documentary on Seabiscuit but never watched it LOL.  Maybe I will.  

www.youtube.com/watch

Stardust,

Great dedication to Barbaro on You Tube. You don't look a day over 39.

Nicanor. What a BEAUTY. May he be blessed, to stay safe and heathly.

goregous brother of Barbaro..

I see quite of Bit of Barbaro

in him..I hope his career is

a wonderful and safe one..

Rose in Las Vegas

Kathy.  Cute :)

Rose.  That is my name too.  

Barbaro Nation WE GET IT!  :)