I love the courage of the people who race horses. If everyone could share their optimism, the world would be a better place.
On Thursday eight horsemen dropped entries for the 55th running of the Woodward Stakes.
The big name is of course reigning Horse of the Year Curlin. The drama starts with realizing that Ken McPeek, the astute trainer who selected Curlin from the Keeneland Fall Yearling Sales and purchased him for $57,000 was at the draw.
He was not lamenting that he no longer owned a piece of the colt. He was there to drop his trainee, Loose Leaf into the entry box. Ken knows horse racing. So long as you break from the gate you have a chance.
Kiaran McLaughlin appears to have the best chance of upsetting Curlin. His horse, Divine Park is a solid horse and if you throw out his synthetic track appearance and disregard the race at Laurel where he broke through the gates before the start, his record is perfect.
When Curlin’s man Scott Blasi was at the microphone he clearly indicated that he liked Curlin’s chances but he said, “This is far from a walkover.” He added, “There are some solid horses in the race.” I love horsemen; the good ones have respect for their competitors no matter what the odds.
All of Curlin’s races have been in legitimate well-established races. We are very lucky to have the opportunity to see him face the starter and attempt to put his name along side the many great horses who have won the Woodward Stakes.
Another great thing about this race is the ad campaign that NYRA launched to promote it.
Getting downtown business involved was a brilliant idea. I hope they continue to do this. I love to see everyone getting involved in this great sport.
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