By J. Keeler Johnson ("Keelerman") On February 1st, one of the most exciting races of the weekend will be held at Santa Anita Park, that being the $200,000 San Vicente Stakes (gr. II) . The seven-furlong...
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By J. Keeler Johnson ("Keelerman") Although it is not an official Kentucky Derby prep race, and thus will not offer Kentucky Derby qualification points to the top four finishers, the $250,000 Sam F. Davis...
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By J. Keeler Johnson ("Keelerman") At this time of year, it is rare to feel very confident in the chances of any given three-year-old in a Kentucky Derby prep race. Because it can be so difficult to predict...
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By J. Keeler Johnson ("Keelerman") On Monday, the Road to the Kentucky Derby continues at Oaklawn Park with the running of the $150,000 Smarty Jones Stakes. The one-mile race has drawn a field of nine...
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By J. Keeler Johnson ("Keelerman") The $200,000 LeComte Stakes (gr. III) on January 17th at Fair Grounds poses an interesting handicapping question—what do you do with Eagle , the likely favorite, now...
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By J. Keeler Johnson ("Keelerman") Along the road to the Kentucky Derby, it sometimes becomes clear that the top three-year-olds in a particular region of the country are clearly superior to their rivals...
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By J. Keeler Johnson ("Keelerman") Dirt! Turf! Fillies! Colts! Three-year-olds! Older horses! No matter what kind of racing you prefer, there should be something for everyone on the second Saturday of...
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By J. Keeler Johnson ("Keelerman") In the quiet month of January—the only month in American horse racing that does not feature at least one grade I race!—it’s natural to pay special attention to the early...
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By J. Keeler Johnson ("Keelerman") Happy New Year, everyone! There is definitely a bit of sadness in bidding farewell to 2014, as it was a wonderful year with some of the very best racing in recent memory...
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By J. Keeler Johnson ("Keelerman") On December 26th, Santa Anita Park will begin their eagerly-anticipated winter meet with a nine-race card highlighted by three graded stakes races, including a pair of...
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