Florida Horse November 2011 issue

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Florida-breds and the Breeders’ Cup...

AWinning Combination Congratulations to the connections of Musical Romance, winner of the 2011 Breeders’ Cup Filly and Mare Sprint (G1). She became the 24th Florida-bred to achieve greatness on racing’s biggest stage.

Musical Romance (f. Concorde’s Tune – Candlelightdinner, by Slew Gin Fizz)

Breeder: Ocala Stud Owner: Pinnacle Racing Stable and William Kaplan Trainer: William Kaplan Jockey: Juan Leyva There’s no substitute for success.

Find your next champion in Florida.

For more information, contact the Florida Thoroughbred Breeders’ and Owners’ Association at (352) 629-2160 or visit us on the internet at www.ftboa.com.

Florida... the Best State for Business

www.facebook.com/thefloridahorse

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November 2011 VO L 5 4 / I S S U E 9

CONTENTS FEATURES Florida-bred Musical Romance stars for Florida in this year’s Breeders’ Cup World Thoroughbred Championships.

—By Michael Compton & Patrick Vinzant

George and Karen Russell achieve success in the breeding industry focusing on quality not quantity.

—By Jo Ann Guidry

Jacks or Better Farm homebreds win both Florida Stallion Stakes Series finales, including a division sweep by Fort Loudon.

—By Michael Compton

Ocala ophthalmologist Dr. Thomas Croley has produced 2011 Florida-bred stakes winner I’m Steppin’ It Up. —By Jo Ann Guidry

—By Amanda House

DEPARTMENTS/COLUMNS

Introducing our friends to horses and agriculture for the long-term benefit of all. —By Connie Duff Wise

—By Jamie A. Cohen

Florida’s Benjamin Leon acquires Breeders’ Cup Ladies Classic winner Royal Delta for $8.5 million at Keeneland.

The More the Merrier —By Paul Moran

4 THE FLORIDA HORSE • NOVEMBER 2011

COVER AND CONTENTS PHOTO OF FLORIDA-BRED MUSICAL ROMANCE WINNING THE BREEDERS’ CUP FILLY AND MARE SPRINT (G1) BY BREEDERS’ CUP LTD.

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801 SW 60th Avenue • Ocala, Florida 34474 (352) 732-8858 • Fax: (352) 867-1979 • www.ftboa.com EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Michael Compton BUSINESS MANAGER

Patrick Vinzant ART DIRECTOR

John Filer CONTRIBUTING EDITOR

JoAnn Guidry ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT

Beverly Kalberkamp CORRESPONDENTS

Jay Friedman, Doug McCoy, Cynthia McFarland, Mark Shuffitt

PUBLISHER Florida Equine Publications, Inc. (A corporation owned by the Florida Thoroughbred Breeders’ and Owners’ Association)

Executive Office - 801 SW 60th Avenue • Ocala, Florida 34474 BOARD OF DIRECTORS Phil Matthews, President/Board Chairman Brent Fernung, 1st Vice President Francis Vanlangendonck, 2nd Vice President Sheila DiMare, Secretary Bonnie M. Heath III, Treasurer EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Richard E. Hancock CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER

Caroline T. Davis

© THE FLORIDA HORSE (ISSN 0090-967X) is published monthly except July by THE FLORIDA HORSE, INC., 801 SW 60th Ave., Ocala, Florida 34474, including the annual Statistical Review in February.

Opinions expressed herein are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect those of Florida Equine Publications or the Florida Thoroughbred Breedersʼ and Ownersʼ Association. Publication of any material originating herein is expressly forbidden without first obtaining written permission from THE FLORIDA HORSE©.

Statistics in the publication relating to results of racing in North America are compiled from data generated by Daily Racing Form, Equibase, Bloodstock Research Information Services, and The Jockey Club Information Systems Inc., the copyright owners of said data. Reproduction is prohibited.

A dvertisin g co py d ead lin e 5th o f mo n th p recedin g p ub licatio n. Su bscrip tio ns and ch ang e of add ress: Please m ail to – Circulation s D ep artment. T HE FL ORIDA H ORS E, 801 SW 60th Ave., O cala, Florida 34474.

Printed by Boyd Brothers, Inc.

BOYD

American Horse Publications • FLORIDA MAGAZINE ASSOCIATION • MEMBER BETTER BUSINESS BUREAU

FTBOA OFFICERS AND BOARD OF DIRECTORS Phil Matthews, President Brent Fernung, First Vice President Francis Vanlangendonck, SecondVice President Sheila DiMare, Secretary Bonnie M. Heath III, Treasurer

DIRECTORS Joe Barbazon Craig Bernick Dean DeRenzo Roy Lerman Diane Parks

Linda Appleton Potter George Russell Jessica Steinbrenner Charlotte C. Weber Eddie Woods

EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT

Richard E. Hancock THE FLORIDA HORSE • NOVEMBER 2011 5

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welcome

6 THE FLORIDA HORSE • NOVEMBER 2011

BREEDERSʼ CUP LIMITED PHOTO

Michael Compton/JOE DIORIO PHOTO

Historic Win elow the iconic Twin Spires of Churchill Downs, Florida-bred Musical Romance notched the Sunshine State’s 24th Breeders’ Cup victory when she rolled to an impressive win in this year’s Filly and Mare Sprint (G1) on Nov. 4.

The score also marked an important milestone for one of Ocala’s most historic farms, Ocala Stud, which bred and sold the winner. Musical Romance is the first Breeders’ Cup winner produced by Ocala Stud.

“Obviously, it’s a big win for us,” said J. Michael O’Farrell. “Personally, I’ve done this a long time and you like to win on the big stage.

The Breeders’ Cup is the big stage. Wins like this don’t happen every day.”

Ocala Stud entered the Filly and Mare Sprint with two opportunities at history. In addition to Musical Romance, Ocala Stud also bred and sold race favorite Turbulent Descent. Both runners sold in Ocala at OBS. It was evident soon after the start of the race that Turbulent Descent was in for a rough trip.

Bumped hard at the break, she immediately found herself at the back of the pack. She checked down the backstretch before traveling wide around the far turn and somehow still managed to see the lead, albeit briefly, at the head of the lane before faltering late.

“We’ve always felt Turbulent Descent is a very, very nice filly,” O’Farrell said. “We’re not surprised in the least at the success she has had.”

Musical Romance had to be supplemented to the race by his owners, trainer Bill Kaplan and Adam Lazarus’ Pinnacle Racing Stable. Kaplan, based year-round in South Florida at Calder Casino and Race Course, had saddled two runners in previous Breeders’ Cups without a win.

The gamble to supplement his charge paid off.

Like Turbulent Descent, Musical Romance also bumped at the break, but jockey Juan Leyva was able to position her just off the early pace

B

Michael OʼFarrell and sons Joe and David

CINDY MIKELL PHOTO

editor’s

11/10/11

down the backstretch. She dropped back just a tad around the turn, but deftly charged between runners in the stretch to overtake Turbulent Descent and go on to register the win.

“I felt good about Musical Romance’s chances,” O’Farrell said. “She had already proven she could be very competitive running against older fillies and mares, while Turbulent Descent was not proven against older and she had been off for awhile heading into the race. I thought Musical Romance’s running style gave her a big shot in the race.”

Musical Romance is by the late sire Concorde’s Tune, who stood at Ocala Stud until his passing last year.

“He was a nice horse,” said O’Farrell. “And he was the first horse owned by the Robshmans, dear friends of ours. He was a good sire, not a great one. He sired a lot of stakes winners, but fittingly, Musical Romance was his first graded stakes winner. Her Breeders’ Cup win is a nice exclamation point on his stallion career.” ■

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written by MICHAEL COMPTON

BENOIT & ASSOCIATES PHOTO

Jeranimo Best in

Florida-bred Jeranimo

Florida-bred Jeranimo ran himself into a berth in the Breeders’ Cup Mile (G1) with his victory in October’s Oak Tree Mile (G2) at Santa Anita.

Jeranimo led the compact field of seven into the first turn under jockey Martin Garcia, but was overtaken by confirmed front runner Monterey Jazz heading down the backstretch. Rounding the far turn, Garcia roused his mount from a stalking position and sent him after the pacesetter at the quarter-pole.

Responding gamely, Jeranimo seized the lead at the head of the lane and got first jump on odds-on favorite Mr. Commons, who had commenced his charge from the back of the pack.

COADY PHOTOS

Florida-breds Shine At Keeneland

Florida-bred Wild About Marie

George Michaels’ favored Luke of York overcame a slow start, rallying in deep stretch to edge Voodoo Daddy by a nose in Keeneland’s 75th Anniversary Stakes Oct. 15 to remain undefeated in two career starts.

Trained by James DiVito and ridden by Rajiv Maragh, Florida-bred Luke of York is a son of Bridlewood Farm stallion Put It Back out of the Meadow Monster mare Gion. Luke of York improved his career bankroll to $96,336 with the victory. He completed six furlongs over Polytrack in 1:09.56.

8 THE FLORIDA HORSE • NOVEMBER 2011

Florida-bred Luke of York (right)

The day before Luke of York visited the Keeneland winner’s circle, Florida-bred Wild About Marie surged to the lead in midstretch and cruised to a two-length win in the 15th running of the Buffalo Trace Franklin County Stakes.She covered 5 ½ furlongs over a firm turf course in 1:03.01.

The Ike and Dawn Thrash colorbearer, trained by Jeff Thornbury, notched her sixth victory from 16 starts and now has earnings of $261,985.

She is a 4-year-old daughter of Journeyman Stud stallion Wildcat Heir out of the Valid Wager mare Joyful Wager. —Keeneland Publicity

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Mad Flatter Repeats in Spend a Buck

Oak Tree Mile

JIM LISA PHOTO

Under strong encouragement from Garcia, Jeranimo had enough in reserve in hold Mr. Commons at bay, hitting the finish with threequarters of a length to spare. Fellow Florida-bred John Johnny Jak finished third, followed by Florida-bred Crown of Thorns in fourth.

Jeranimo covered the one mile on turf in 1:32.61.

Bred by Brylynn Farm and campaigned by B.J. Wright, Jeranimo is a son of Congaree out of the Jeblar mare Jera. The OBS graduate is trained by Michael Pender.

Prior to the Oak Tree Mile, Jeranimo finished eighth in the Pacific Classic (G1) at Del Mar. He was second behind Acclamation in the Eddie Read Handicap (G1) on the turf before that. The Oak Tree Mile was his first stakes victory since the San Gabriel Stakes (G2) in December of 2010.

The result of this year’s Spend a Buck Stakes (G3) at Calder on Festival of the Sun day Oct. 15, looked very much like last year’s. Floridabred Mad Flatter returned to successfully defend his Spend a Buck crown once again defeating Mambo Meister in the 1 1/16-mile event.

Mad Flatter, a 6-year-old Florida-bred son of Flatter bred by Bonnie Heath Farm and owned by his breeder in partnership with Holiday Stable and Hinkle Farms, covered the distance in 1:46.07 and was ridden by Jon Court, who was also aboard for last year’s Spend a Buck score. Jeff Thornbury saddled the winner.

After capturing last year’s Spend a Buck, then a Breeders’ Cup “Win and You’re In” race, Mad Flatter earned himself a spot in the starting gate for the Breeders’ Cup Mile (G1). He stumbled at the start of that test, however, and was never really involved after that.

Also on the Festival of Sun card, Florida-bred Oligarch won the Tropical Florida-bred Mad Flatter Park Derby.The OBS graduate completed the 1 1/8 miles on turf in 1:53.64 under Daniel Centeno. Owned by Caroni Stables, Oligarch, a son of Congrats, is conditioned by Rodolfo Garcia.

C C’s Pal Victorious in Miss Golden Circle in deep stretch to win the Miss Golden Circle Stakes at Belmont Park Oct. 23.

Bred by Beth Bayer and racing in the colors of Eric Fein, the OBS graduate raced outside rivals down the backstretch under a snug hold from John Velazquez. Perched three-wide throughout, C C’s Pal cruised to the leaders around the far turn. She engaged with Alseera at the head of the lane and edged away late under confident handling. She hit the wire three-quarters of a length in front of Alseera with fellow Florida-bred Belle of the Hall closing late to secure third.

NYRA PHOTO

Florida-bred C C’s Pal has proven her quality throughout her career, holding her own against stakes company year in and year out.

Returning last month from a brief freshening over the summer, the 4-year-old daughter of Alex’s Pal, in her first start for trainer Richard Dutrow, edged away from race favoriteAlseera

C C’s Pal covered the seven furlongs over the main track in 1:23.09.

After winning the Monmouth Beach Stakes at Monmouth Park May 15, C C’s Pal finished fifth in the Lighthouse Stakes after prompting the early pace and then wound up seventh and last in the Lady’s Secret Stakes at Monmouth July 31. She went to the sidelines following that effort.

All told, C C’s Pal has now won five of 22 career starts and boasts earnings in excess of $350,000.

Third-place finisher Belle of the Hall is a 4year-old daughter of Winding Oaks Farm stallion Graeme Hall.The $340,000 OBS graduate was bred by Leon Edward’s Do Little Farm and races for West Point Thoroughbreds. Belle of the Hall has won four of 13 and placed in three others for trainer Tom Albertrani.

Florida-bred C Cʼs Pal winning the Miss Golden Circle Stakes at Belmont Park.

THE FLORIDA HORSE • NOVEMBER 2011 9

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Arrival of New Stallions Stonewall Farm Ocala has announced the arrival of three new stallions to the farm’s stallion battery for the 2012 season. The new arrivals taking up residence at the farm are Causeway’s Kin, Greatness and Motovato.They join Leroidesanimaux (BRZ), sire of this year’s Kentucky Derby (G1) winnerAnimal Kingdom,A.P. Warrior, Da Stoops, Doneraile Court, Frsico Star, It’s No Joke, Spellbinder, Strong Contender, Unforgettable Max and Value Plus.

“We are still expanding our stallion roster,” said Michelle Hemingway, bloodstock director at Stonewall Farm Ocala. “We’re committed to Florida’s breeders and we want to offer them as many different sire lines as we can.”

Greatness, by Mr. Prospector—Harbour Club, by Danzig, has relocated to Stonewall from Randolph Thoroughbreds. The sire was represented in this year’s Breeders’ Cup World Championships by Florida-bred Great Attack, who finished fourth in the $2 million Breeders’Cup Turf Sprint (G2).

Produced from a stakes-winning and multiple Grade 1-placed dam, Greatness is passing on his class. He is the sire of multiple stakes winners Jenny’s So Great, a Grade 3 winner of $561,875, Amazing, an earner of

10 THE FLORIDA HORSE • NOVEMBER 2011

Motovato

JIM LISA PHOTO

Stonewall Farm Announces

$465,847, and Immortal Eyes, who has bankrolled $425,422 and set a track record. He has also sired stakes winner Wiredfortwotwenty, as well Special Greatness, a two-time champion in the Dominican Republic.

“I’ve always had tremendous faith in the horse,” said his breeder Ed Seltzer. “His numbers as a stallion are strong with limited opportunities. He gets very correct foals and he has already sired some great runners.”

Greatness boasts progeny earnings of more than $6.8 million and has average earnings per starter of nearly $57,000.

“We’re excited to stand Greatness,” said Hemingway. “His weanlings this year are a result of the strongest group of mares he’s received. Combined with the development of his upcoming book at Stonewall, we believe he will be as good a sire in the sales ring as he is on the racetrack.”

Motovato, a son of Proud Citizen—Buffalo Bird Woman, by Slew City Slew, carried his speed to stakes victories in Calder’s Kenny Noe Jr. (G3) in 2009, the Primal Stakes in 2009, as well as the Sumter Stakes in 2009 and 2010 and the Memorial Day Handicap this year. In addition, he finished second in the 2009 Memorial Day Handicap (G3) and the 2010 Gulfstream Park Handicap (G2) and third in the Gulfstream Park Sprint Championship Stakes (G2) in 2010 and this year’s Our Dear Peggy Stakes at Calder.

Campaigned at the end of his career by Gary Barber and Team Valor International, Motovato was trained by Marty Wolfson. He retires with earnings of $398,869.All told, he won seven of 22 starts and placed in eight others.

“Motovato has that wow factor,” said Hemingway. “He is striking. He was meant to be a phenomenal racehorse but he was injured as a three-yearold. To come back from that and be able to excel as a graded stakes horse for three more years is remarkable. If he can pass on his heart and his looks he will definitely be a sire to contend with.”

Causeway’s Kin, a stakes-winning son of perennial leading sire Giant’s Causeway out of the brilliant race mare You, by You and I, will stand his first season at stud in 2012. Winner of the 2010 Band Is Passing Stakes at Calder, Causeway’s Kin also finished second in the 2010 Memorial Day Handicap (G3) and that year’s Sumter Stakes behind Motovato. He retires with three wins from 12 starts and earnings of $123,387.

“He looks exactly like his sire,” Hemingway said. “And we’re thrilled to have the only Giant’s Causeway in Florida. If he can stamp his foals with his physical attributes he will also be a sire to watch in the sales ring and on the racetrack.”

Stonewall Farm Ocala has scheduled its stallion show for Saturday, Dec. 3 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

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It took the length of the stretch for favored John Johny Jak to get past determined long shot Assessment, but the 3-2 favorite arrived in the shadow of the wire Nov. 5 to take Santa Anita’s Lure Stakes.

Under a vigorous ride by Victor Es-

BENOIT & ASSOCIATES PHOTO

John Johny Jak Wins Lure

pinoza, the Floridabred ran the one-mile Florida-bred John Johny Jak distance on turf in 1:35.44 to build upon a third-place finish A 4-year-old, John Johny Jak began his behind fellow Sunshine State product Jeran- career in Florida before joining the stable imo in the Oak Tree Mile (G2) last time out. of Kristin Mulhall in July. He has blossomed under her care for Kretz Racing.

After losing Del Mar’s Wickerr Stakes by a nose, he won the Harry Brubaker at Del OBS since 1978, overseeing the company’s substantial growth and diversification with the addiMar prior to his solid showing in the Oak tion of OBS Feed and Supply, Ocala Jai Alai and Tree Mile. inter track wagering.

“He ran super,” Mulhall said. “I’m just “We appreciate Tom Chiota’s long and dedihappy we’re here. It definitely was a batcated service to OBS,” said J. Michael O’Farrell, tle. He is the kind of horse that, when he board chairman of OBS. “We’re sorry to see him gets head and head, at times he’ll pull himleave and wish him the best in retirement.Tom Venself up a little bit. He likes to be able to tura has worked alongside Mr. Chiota for many chase after a horse and it looks like Victor years and is a well-deserved successor.” had to work pretty hard on him.”

A new director of sales will be named at a fu-

Ventura to Succeed Chiota at OBS

ELEANOR HANCOCK PHOTO

The Ocala Breeders’ Sales company last month announced that director of sales and general manager Tom Ventura will be promoted to president of OBS upon the retirement of long-time President Tom Chiota on June 30, 2012.

Ventura joined the company in 1994 as assistant director of sales and has served as general manager and director of sales for the past 12 years.

Chiota has been with Tom Ventura

12 THE FLORIDA HORSE • NOVEMBER 2011

ture date.

—Santa Anita Publicity

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FTBOA and Other Horsemen’s Groups In Opposition of Gretna Racing’s Plans

14 THE FLORIDA HORSE • NOVEMBER 2011

letters to the Florida DPMW and its parent national organization, which has 24,000 agency, the Florida Department of Business members and affiliates in 12 different counand Professional Regulation, asking them to tries.

Jones further added; “We wholeheartreject Gretna Racing’s application.

“It’s apparent that the Department of edly lend our support to the Florida Quarter Business and Professional Regulation Horse Racing Association and the United (DBPR) is basically turning a blind eye to Horsemen of Florida and seek denial in allowing pari-mutuel wathe regulatory issues that gering on barrel racing they have enforced upon in the state of Florida.” our industry in the past,” According to pubMatthews said. “The lished reports, Gretna’s Florida Quarter Horse application lists David Racing Association has Romanik, a former raised many legitimate, Gulfstream Park presicommon sense questions dent, and Paul McGee, surrounding this permit a Tallahassee attorney, request that have all been each with 10 percent dismissed by the DBPR. ownership. Marc DunFrankly, I find it very pebar, a partner in the Penculiar and it forces our nington Law Firm in hand to seek relief Tallahassee, also is a through a judicial ruling lobbyist for Gulfstream to halt Gretna’s plans.”

Park and for several According to a press It’s apparent that the De- gaming equipment comrelease, The National partment of Business and panies.

Barrel Horse Association “We conducted a State Director Linda Professional Regulation conference call between Jones wrote a letter to (DBPR) is basically turning representatives of and Ken Dawson, secretary of the Florida Depart- a blind eye to the regulatory legal counsel for the FBPHA, the FQHRA ment of Business and issues that they have enProfessional Regulation, forced upon our industry in and the FSBO.” Matthews added. “All of making it clear where the the past. us are in agreement that NBHA stands.

—Phil Matthews, FTBOA president this should not be al“Florida NBHA does not and will not endorse this endeavor,” lowed to stand and are taking whatever Jones wrote in her letter to Secretary Law- measures available to us to prevent parison. “With over 1,400 statewide members mutuel barrel horse racing from the beginand 2,400 national members, the NBHA’s ning. We are allied on this front and will Florida Division is the largest in the inter- pool our resources in this effort.”

SERITA HULT PHOTO

An application by Gretna Racing LLC to use its Quarter Horse permit to conduct pari-mutuel barrel racing at its facility in Gretna, Fl., approximately 25 miles west of Tallahassee, was approved by the Florida Division of Pari-Mutuel Wagering on Oct. 19 despite opposition from horsemen’s groups throughout the state.

Gretna Racing announced plans to begin a 40-race card meet on Dec. 1, 2011, which would mark the first pari-mutuel barrel racing in Florida. Gretna Racing also indicated it will have a year-round poker room.

The Florida Thoroughbred Breeders’ and Owners’ Association (FTBOA) has joined together with other Florida horsemen’s groups, including the Florida Horsemen’s Benevolent and Protective Association (FHBPA), the Florida Quarter Horse Racing Association and Florida Standardbred Breeders and Owners in opposition of Gretna’s plans. All four associations maintain that pari-mutuel barrel racing is not authorized under the state’s laws.

“The FTBOA recognizes this as a serious threat to Florida racing and Florida’s Thoroughbred industry,” said FTBOA President Phil Matthews. “Our efforts are focused on stopping it before it starts.”

In addition to the FTBOA, some of the groups on record denouncing the parimutuel barrel racing project are: the FHBPA (5,000 Florida members); the American Quarter Horse Association (7,163 Florida members); the Florida Quarter Horse Racing Association (439 Florida members); the Florida Standardbred Breeders and Owners Association (630 members); and the U.S. Trotting Association (25,000 members).

The FTBOA and the FHBPA have sent

“

”

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Live

Thoroughbred

Racing!

Saturday, December 3, 2011— Saturday, May 6, 2012 Closing Saturday, November 19, 2011

Closing Saturday, January 21, 2012

Closing Saturday, March 3, 2012

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Saturday, December 10, 2011 $75,000 Guaranteed (Includes $25,000 from FB/FSP Stakes Fund)

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The Minaret Stakes For Fillies And Mares Three Year Olds and Upward Six Furlongs

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Closing Saturday, March 24, 2012

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Closing Saturday, December 31, 2011 Saturday, January 14, 2012 $100,000 Guaranteed (Includes $50,000 from FB/FSP Stakes Fund)

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“World Champ

JOE DIORIO PHOTO

(left),” sponsored by the Florida Thoroughbred Breeders’ and Owners’ Association, took up residence alongside “Champ” in front of the FTBOA offices last month. Both horses were painted by Sharon Crute.

As part of Marion Cultural Alliance’s Horse Fever project, World Champ and the rest of the Horse Fever herd will be auctioned off on Friday, March 23, 2012 at Live Oak Plantation.

The life-sized painted horses are on display throughout Ocala until March. A map of their locations can be found at www.ocala.com.

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Florida-bred Musical Romance stars for Florida in this year’s Breeders’ Cup World Thoroughbred Championships

By MICHAEL COMPTON & PATRICK VINZANT

F

lorida had a record 25 Breeders’ Cup pre-entries for

this year’s Breeders’ Cup World Thoroughbred Champi-

onships at Churchill Downs Nov. 4-5. While the state’s con-

tingent made its presence felt in many of the weekend’s events, Florida-bred Musical Romance proved to be the state’s star.

Florida held a strong hand in the $1 million Breeders’ Cup Filly and Mare Sprint (G1) at Churchill Downs with six of the 13 runners, including race favorite Turbulent Descent, hailing from the Sunshine State.

At the conclusion of a hotly contested seven furlongs, it was Musical Romance prevailing by 1¼ lengths for Adam Lazarus’ Pinnacle Racing and Bill Kaplan, who also conditions the Ocala Stud-bred daughter of Concorde’s Tune—Candlelightdinner, by Slew Gin Fizz, bringing Florida’s Breeders’ Cup win total to 24 following 28 renewals of racing’s biggest event.

Musical Romance bumped with Champagne D’Oro at the break, but jockey Juan Leyva was able to position her just off the early pace of fellow Florida-bred Golden Mystery. Musical Romance dropped back just a tad on the turn before Leyva found daylight between horses at the head of the lane.

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Under a smart ride by Leyva, Musical Romance bravely split runners and charged to the lead in the stretch, overtaking a fading Turbulent Descent. He kept his mount to task in the late stages and held Switch at bay to the wire, stopping the clock in 1:23.47. Her Smile finished third and Florida-bred Pomeroys Pistol was fourth.

“She broke pretty sharp,” said Leyva. “I was trying to get her to relax a bit. Once Golden Mystery got in front of me, I was able to get her off the bridle a little bit.

Around the turn, I was pretty confident. I hadn’t asked her to run yet. Once I saw the seam, I went through there, and my filly fired.”

Musical Romance’s victory provided co-owner and trainer Bill Kaplan his first Breeders’ Cup victory with his third starter.

“She’s been improving since day one,” he said at the post-race press conference. “This last year we moved her to sprint (distances) and she was just impressive in

Tainer Bill Kaplan (below) and the connections of Musical Romance in the winnerʼs circle following the Filly and Mare Sprint.

If you look back on her record and look at “her films of the last eight races coming into this race, she was very impressive in every one of them. —trainer Bill Kaplan

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every race. If you look back on her record and look at ance during the breeze zeroed us in on her, and we just Emotions ran high her films of the last eight races coming into this race, went for it. We got her for a very reasonable price. She for owner Adam Lazarus and family. she was very impressive in every one of them.” proved to be worth it. She was the athlete we look for.

The confidence Kaplan and Lazarus had in Musical “The second day galloping on the training track, she Romance was rewarded. It cost them $130,000 to be cracked her pastern, took a couple screws, and we able to run her in the Filly and Mare Sprint. brought her back,” Kaplan added. “Ever since then, she “We had to run second to break even,” Kaplan said. hasn’t had problem one. The more I race her, the happier “We run third, we would have lost $50,000.” she gets. She’s really, really remarkable.”

The gamble paid off.

Kaplan’s words are backed up by Musical Romance’s “To beat the odds today, believe me, my pocket is performances this season. Heading into the race, the 4thankful,” said Lazarus. “First of all, beyond the talent, have you The filly is special for talent, but she’s got a heart that’s unbelievable. ever seen a horse with this much —owner Adam Lazarus guts?You can’t see that at a sale. This is called stone cold year-old filly had won four of 13 this year and placed in luck, and we just found it. The filly is special for talent, four others. Numbered among her scores was a dramatic win in the rich Presque Isle Downs Masters Stakes (G2) but she’s got a heart that’s unbelievable.”

A $22,000 OBS sale graduate, Musical Romance’s in September. The Calder-based runner also owns three journey to the racetrack was not an easy one for Lazarus stakes victories at that Miami track this season.

“She’s won on turf, synthetic, short, long, mud— and Kaplan.

“When I select horses at the sale, I work 95 percent every (type of track) this filly has won on,” Kaplan said. off their breeze when I buy two-year-olds, and I only “And she’s run against great company. I think this is the buy two-year-olds,” said Kaplan. “Her athletic perform- best I’ve seen around this year, in a sprint race for sure.”

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Stephanieʼs Kitten takes the Juvenile Fillies Turf over Stopshoppingmaria.

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Race favorite Turbulent Descent was roughed up at the start and never seemed to settle into a comfortable stride down the backstretch. She made a sweeping move four-wide around the far turn and actually fought her way to the front for a short time before faltering in the lane and checking in fifth under David Flores.

While Musical Romance wound up being the only Florida-bred winner of the two days of racing, runners with Florida ties made plenty of headlines.

OBS graduate Secret Circle, a $165,000 March graduate, won the inaugural running of the $500,000 Juvenile Sprint at six furlongs. The Bob Baffert trainee won by one length, defeating Shumoos in a time of 1:10.52 over a drying out track labeled good. Sent off at odds of 2-5, Secret Circle tied for the second-lowest payoff for a Breeders’ Cup winner.

Florida-bred Meadow Star returned the lowest parimutuel price at $2.40 in 1990 when she won that year’s Juvenile Fillies.

Secret Circle, a son of Eddington out of the Dix-

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ieland Band mare Ragtime Hope, was sold in Ocala by Flying Fish. The colt is owned by Mike Pegram, Karl Watson and Paul Weitman. The winner was ridden by Rafael Bejarano.

“He’s green but he’s just extremely gifted and talented,” said Baffert. “I think it’s a kind of horse that I’m going to—eventually we’re going to try to stretch him out.”

Stephanie’s Kitten wore down pacesetter Stopshoppingmaria to take down top prize in the $1 million Juvenile Fillies Turf, stopping the clock in 1:38.90 for the one mile on turf. Sweet Cat finished third. The top two finishers were both offered for sale at OBS. Eddie Woods consigned the winner to this year’s April sale.

Owned by Ken and Sarah Ramsey, Stephanie’s Kitten is trained by Wayne Catalano and was ridden by John Velazquez.

My Miss Aurelia made short work of her rivals in the $2 million Juvenile Fillies (G1), hitting the wire three lengths clear of Grace Hall in second. OBS graduate Weemissfrankie, a daughter of Sunriver owned by Ale-

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sia, Bran Jam Stable, Ciaglia Racing, Dyrdek and Cosato, rallied late for third. My Miss Aurelia covered the 1 1⁄16 miles in 1:46 for trainer Steve Asmussen.

George Bolton bought the colt at Keeneland September from breeder Stonestreet Thoroughbred Holdings for $550,000 and he allowed them to stay in on the horse. Trainer Steve Asmussen said the youngster received his early lessons at Gulf Coast Farm.

“She’s just been everybody’s star at every stage,” said Asmussen.

Charles Fipke’s Perfect Shirl upset the field in the $2 million Filly and MareTurf (G1). Ridden byVelazquez, who rode every Breeders’ Cup race on Friday, the daughter of Perfect Soul provided trainer Roger Attfield and Fipke with their first ever Breeders’ Cup winner.

Nahrain (GB) finished second, three-quarters of a length behind the winner. Misty for Me (IRE) checked in third.

“The filly is getting better and better all the time,” said Attfield. “I said if the turf course is firm she’s going to run really well for me. I was wrong about the going.

She handled it and she did very well.”

In one of the most impressive performances of the weekend, Royal Delta cruised to a facile score in the $2 million Breeders’ Cup Ladies Classic (G1). Owned

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by Palides Investments, the 3-year-old daughter of Empire Maker defeated elders for trainer Bill Mott under jockey Jose Lezcano.

Rated off the early pace of Plum Pretty, Royal Delta closed with good energy, hit the front in deep stretch and crossed the wire 2 ½ lengths in front of runner-up It’s Tricky. She covered the 1 1⁄8 miles in 1:50.78.

“This is special. It’s nice just to win one of these, let alone two in a row,” said Mott, who also saddled Peter Vegso’s Unrivaled Belle to a victory in last year’s renewal.

OBS graduate Secret Circle won the Juvenile Sprint.

“ She’s just been everybody’s star at every stage.”

—trainer Steve Asmussen on My Miss Aurelia

■ While Florida appeared well-armed heading into day two of this year’s Breeders’ Cup World Championships at Churchill Downs, the best finishes mustered by Sunshine State products were a second-place finish by Birdrun in the Marathon, and third-place finishes from Jackson Bend in the Sprint and Brilliant Speed in the Turf.

The marquee race of the day, the $5 million Classic, went to Winstar Farms’ Drosselmeyer, who ran down pacesetter Game on Dude. The winner was ridden by

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Winstar Farmsʼ Drosselmeyer and Mike Smith won the $5 million Classic.

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jockey Mike Smith, who came up just a nose short in last year’s Classic aboard Zenyatta.

What a difference a year makes. This time around, Smith got his mount to the line first, catching Game on Dude, ridden by Smith’s former fiancé, Chantal Sutherland, to notch the victory and avenge last year’s narrow defeat aboard Zenyatta. Final time for the 1¼ miles was 2:04.27.

“He ran an awesome race right from the first jump,” said Smith. “Right out the gate, he got into a great rhythm. The key to this horse is to keep him moving. If you put on the brakes it messes him up. I knew I was going to wheel him out so I just kept him going and I was able to save ground on both turns.”

The win also gave trainer Bill Mott a rare double, winning both the Ladies Classic and the Classic.

“He was mowing them down the last eighth of a mile,” said Mott. “I guess his biggest attribute is his stamina, and he showed it today.”

Florida-bred Flat Out finished fifth for owner Preston Stables and trainer Charles “Scooter” Dickey. The filly, Havre de Grace, finished fourth and Uncle Mo wound up 10th.

The day of upsets started early with long shot Afleet Again’s victory in the 1¾-mile Marathon (G2), the first

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BC race of the day. The 4-year-old son of Florida-bred winner was ridden by Ryan Moore. Finishing second was Royal Delta won the Ladies Cassic in Afleet Alex closed resolutely down the center of the track Excaper, a son of former Florida sire Exchange Rate. impressive fashion. to collar Florida-bred Birdrun and Giant Oak and won Florida was represented by a strong contingent in the the race in 3:00.39 under Cornelio Velazquez. Birdrun $1.5 million Sprint (G1), but it wasn’t enough to stop held second, Giant Oak was third and Florida-bred Pleas- Amazombie, who defeated Force Freeze by a neck in ant Prince wound up fourth after setting the early pace. the six-furlong dash.

“He ran fabulously,” said winning trainer Robert Reid.

By former Florida sire Northern Afleet, Amazombie “It is so rare to get this kind of distance, so we decided to covered the distance in 1:09.17. Jackson Bend rallied from take a shot. We always thought he could go this far. There’s no limit He was mowing them down the last eighth of a mile. I guess his biggest to how far he can run.” attribute is his stamina, and he showed it today. —trainer Bill Mott on Drosselmeyer Birdrun, owned by Preston Stables and bred by the late Arthur Appleton, was game the back of the pack to finish third for Robert LaPenta and in defeat.

Fred Brei’s Jacks or Better Farm and trainer Nick Zito.

“He ran well. He tried hard,” said trainer Bill Mott.

“I feel very fortunate and very lucky,” said winning “Funny enough, the horse that won, we’ve been beating trainer Bill Spawr on his initial Breeders’ Cup win.

“After he won the Ancient Title we decided to send him all year long. It was his turn today.”

European shipper Wrote (IRE) captured the $1 mil- him here. That’s a “Win and You’re In” race, and if it lion Juvenile Turf (G1) for Mrs. John Magnier, Michael wasn’t for that race we wouldn’t be here. There are no Tabor and Derrick Smith and trainer Aidan O’Brien. The words to describe the feeling.”

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Afleet Again, a 4-yearold son of Florida-bred Afleet Alex, pulled the upset in the Marathon.

Jackson Bend wound up as the race favorite at odds of 5-2.

“He ran great we just ran out of real estate,” said trainer Nick Zito.

Big Drama, the defending Sprint champion finished seventh in his final career start before heading to Harold Queen’s Ocala farm.

Vinery’s Regally Ready rolled to an impressive score in the $1 million Turf Sprint under Corey Nakatani for trainer Steve Asmussen.

The 4-year-old gelded son of More Than Ready had demonstrated his affinity for Churchill’s turf course in the past and remained perfect over the Churchill lawn after Saturday’s effort. He defeated Country Day by 1½ lengths and stopped the clock in :56.48 for the five furlongs.

“The Asmussen team did a great job with this horse,” said Nakatani. “And that race at Woodbine set him up perfectly for this race. We got away in good shape and we had a perfect trip. He was composed and focused. When he started pulling away in the stretch it just shows what a good horse he is.”

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Florida-bred Great Attack, a son of Stonewall Farm Ocala stallion Greatness, finished fourth for trainer Wesley Ward.

Caleb’s Posse, a 3-year-old son of Posse, captured the $1 million Dirt Mile by four lengths for trainer Donnie Von Hemel. Ridden by Rajiv Maragh, Caleb’s Posse covered one mile in 1:34.59. Preakness Stakes (G1) winner Shackleford held second and Tres Borrachos finished third. Florida-bred Trappe Shot, bred by Hobeau Farm and owned by Nicholas Brady’s Mill House, was fourth for trainer Kiaran McLauglin.

“It’s the biggest victory of my career, no doubt,” said Von Hemel. “If my chest could swell any bigger, it probably wouldn’t fit here. I am so proud of him. He’s such

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a neat little horse. And he comes to run on these oneturn races, man.”

Florida-bred Brilliant Speed gave Florida backers a thrill on the far turn of the $3 million Turf as he engaged the leaders with a quarter of a mile to run, struck the lead with a furlong out but weakened late to finish third behind St Nicholas Abbey (IRE) and Sea Moon (GB).

St Nicholas Abbey was piloted by young Joseph O’Brien, 18-year-old son of trainerAidan O’Brien. Joseph became the youngest rider in history to win a Breeders’ Cup race.

“This is very special,” said

Vineryʼs Regally Ready scored in the Turf Sprint under Corey Nakatani.

Also pictured, Vineryʼs Tom Ludt.

away in good shape and we had a perfect trip.

“HeWewasgotcomposed and focused. When he started pulling away in the stretch it just shows what a good horse he is. ” — jockey Corey Nakatani

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Aidan. “Unbelievable. It was a wonderful race. He is an amazing rider. It’s been a great day.”

Brilliant Speed, a 3-year-old son of Dynaformer, is a Live Oak Plantation homebred. He is trained by Tom Albertrani and was ridden by John Velazquez.

In a possible preview of next year’s classic trail, Hansen and Union Rags hit the wire together in the $2 milHe (Hansen) ran superb for me. lion Juvenile (G1) with I got pressured pretty early around the Hansen prevailing by a head three-eighths pole, but he continued for trainer Michael Maker.

Owned by Kendall Hansen coming for me. I’m very pleased. and Sky Chai Racing, the 2He’s special. —jockey Ramon Dominguez year-old son of Tapit shot to the lead at the start and made every pole a winning one under Ramon Dominguez to remain undefeated in three career starts.

“He ran superb for me,” said Dominguez. “I got pressured pretty early around the three-eighths pole, but he continued coming for me. I’m very pleased. He’s special.”

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(left) Joseph OʼBrien, 18, became the youngest jockey to ever win a Breedersʼ Cup race, guiding St Nicholas Abby to victory in the Turf. (opposite page) Hansen prevailed in the Juvenile.

Union Rags traveled four wide around the far turn and closed well to just miss under Javier Castellano.

“One jump after the wire I was in front,” said Castellano. “But that’s horse racing. I’m disappointed in the result but not disappointed in my horse.”

The $2 million Mile (G1) had plenty of drama as Goldikova (IRE), definitely one of the stars and fan favorites of the weekend, was seeking to capture an unprecedented fourth straight Mile. Bottled up around the

far turn, Goldikova forced her way through runners, bumping with Courageous Cat at the head of the lane.

Goldikova forged to the front in the stretch, but could not withstand the late bids of a charging Court Vision and Turallure who ran past her and hit the wire together. Court Vision prevailed in the tight photo finish, winning by a nose for Spendthrift Farm and trainer Dale Romans. Goldikova finished third. Court Vision ran the distance in 1:37.05. ■

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Top Notch Venue Great Venue sells for $95,000 to top OBS Fall Mixed Sale; Glen Hill broodmares and Florida-bred weanlings lead the way

“

This is the top bloodstock sale in Florida.All the agents are here and we believe that there are plenty of buyers interested in mares in the $20,000 to $100,000 range.

By MICHAEL COMPTON Leading the way at the OBS Fall Mixed Sale during the consignor preferred session on Oct. 18 was hip No. 63, an Unbridled’s Song mare named Great Venue, who sold to George and Karen Russell’s Rustlewood Farm for $95,000. The Russells also purchased the sale topper at last year’s OBS Fall Mixed sale, a $250,000 Storm Cat mare named Zehoorr in foal to Tiznow.

Consigned by Glen Hill Farm, unraced Great Venue is produced from the stakes-winning and stakes producing Formal Dinner mare Rose Colored Lady. She sold in foal to Scat Daddy.

“This is the top bloodstock sale in Florida,” said Craig Bernick, president and chief operating officer of Glen Hill. “All the agents are here and we believe that there are plenty of buyers interested in mares in the $20,000 to $100,000 range.”

The highest-price weanling of the opening session and the second-highest price horse of the day was hip No. 121, a Florida-bred colt by Vinery stallion Pomeroy

who sold for $48,000 to Machmer Hall. Out of the Not For Love mare Clever Me, the colt was consigned by TdM Sales (Tristan and Valery de Meric).

Machmer Hall also signed for hip No. 61. The $37,000 Florida-bred daughter of Scat Daddy was consigned by Sue Vacek, agent.

Hip No. 55, a Florida-bred filly by Vinery stallion D’wildcat, brought $42,000. The ticket for the secondhighest priced weanling and the top filly was signed by H.H., agent. The filly, a half-sister to Florida-bred stakes winner John Johny Jak, was consigned by Andy Cant.

The third-highest priced weanling was hip No. 70, a Florida-bred Congrats colt purchased by Fall Bloodstock for $32,000. The colt, from the family of graded stakes-placed Secret of Mecca, was consigned by Top Line Sales, agent.

All told, 80 head sold during the consignor preferred session on Tuesday for a gross $1,038,100, compared to 166 head at last year’s corresponding session. Yesterday’s average was $12,976; it was $15,664

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—Craig Bernick,

Hip No. 63 sold for $95,000 to top the OBS Fall Mixed Sale.

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president and chief operating officer of Glen Hill

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last year. The median price was $8,250, up from $7,500 a year ago. The buyback percentage was 33.3 percent; it was 35.1 percent last year.

For the final session Oct. 19, 185 horses grossed $1,131,000, compared with 182 horses bringing a total of $870,200 last year. The average was $6,114, up 27.9 percent compared with $4,781 in 2010, while the median price was $3,700, up 37 percent compared with $2,700 a year ago.The buyback rate was 22.3 percent; it was 34.3 percent last year.

The sale’s second highest price overall, originally an

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RNA during the opening session, was hip No. 41, Alike, a 4-year-old Grand Slam mare consigned by Pauls Mill Bloodstock, agent for Cloverleaf Farm II and sold postsale to Steve Holliday for $60,000. The bay mare, a full sister to graded stakes winner Alke out of stakes placed Pasampsi, by Crow (FR), is in foal to Congrats.

Next on the OBS agenda is the Winter Mixed Sale, scheduled for January 17-18, 2012, the OBS Championship Stakes on March 12 and the Selected Sale of TwoYear-Olds in Training, set for March 13-14. ■

Korean Contingent Visits Marion County; Attends OBS Sale

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Members of Gyeongsangbuk-Do Provincial Government delegation visited Ocala during October. Led by the FTBOA, the delegation visited area farms and attended the OBS Fall Mixed Sale.

The delegation consisted of Park Soonbo, director of Agriculture and Fishery Affairs, Kim Chulsoon, manager, division of Horse Industry Management, Kwon Euite, Yong-un Education Foundation, Kim Sangjin, reporter with The Yeongnam Daily News and Lee Choungseop, The Sorabol College.

Pictured with the delegation bottom right is Florida Commissioner of Agriculture and Consumer Services Adam Putnam and J. Michael O’ Farrell Jr. of Ocala Stud.

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Control breeding industry focusing on quality not quantity Bred by Heubeck, All Considered was by Peace Corps out of the Red Gar mare Lanie. In 1989, she won the I Guarantee It Stakes at Gulfstream Park and was second in the Tropical Park Oaks at Calder. All Considered retired with earnings of $99,660 on six wins, four seconds and two thirds in 27 starts.

As a broodmare, All Considered would continue to contribute to the Russells’Thoroughbred success.

She produced stakes winner Consider Thesource and stakes-placed All Milady. Raced by the Russells, Consider Thesource won the 2005 My Dear Girl Stakes of the Florida Stallion Stakes and earned $269,210. Now a Rustlewood Farm broodmare, Con-

sider Thesource has a 2011 Montbrook filly and is back in foal to that sire for 2012.

While the Russells enjoy racing homebreds, they also sell in the commercial market and have had success stories there as well. In 1997, they sold a filly by Black Tie Affair (Ire) out of the Slew ‘ Gold mare Inside Line for $30,000 at the OBS March juvenile sale. Bought and raced by Harold Queen, the filly named Inside Affair won seven stakes and was stakes-placed seven times on her way to earning $431,392.

Bred by Rustlewood Farm, 2009 Florida-bred stakes winner Big Push was sold for $45,000 at the

George and Karen Russell have bought the last two sales toppers at OBSʼ October Fall Mixed Sale.

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2010 filly by Harlan’s Holiday, who was sold by the Russells for $40,000 at the 2011 August yearling sale.

Florida-bred graded stakes winner Mach Ride, a 2003 colt by Pentelicus, became a stakes winner when he won the 2006 Valid Video Stakes at Calder for Rustlewood Farm. He followed that in 2007 with victories in the Smile Sprint Stakes (G3) and Champali Stakes.

Mach Ride was also stakes-placed five times, including a trio in graded-stakes company. With earnings of $640,050, he retired to stud in 2011 at Bridlewood Farm.

Blue Pepsi Lodge, a 2002 colt by Pioneering, ran third for the Russells in the 2007 Jack Dudley Sprint Handicap. Shortly thereafter, he as claimed from the Russells. For his new owner, Blue Pepsi Lodge posted his first stakes win in the 2007 Kaiser Stakes, setting a 2008 OBS April juvenile sale. By Black Mambo out of Calder track record of 1:04.05 for five and a half furListentothebells, by Allen’s Prospect, Big Push won the longs. In 2008, he won the Hilton Garden Inn Sprint Chan Balum Stakes and Gilded Times Stakes in 2009. Stakes and Champali Stakes. Also stakes placed four He has also been stakes-placed four times and has to times, Blue Pepsi Lodge earned $368,175. He currently stands stud in Jamaica. date earned $369,824.

“It was very exciting when Mach Ride and Blue Pepsi “When we sell a horse, we’re very happy if it goes on and does well for someone else,” said Russell. “It’s Lodge were both running and winning,” said George. “We still own Mach Ride and sent five of our broodmares to good for the business.”

There’s a special satisfaction in breeding and racing him in 2011. We’re looking forward to his babies.”

As a newly-installed Florida Thoroughbred Breedoutstanding homebreds. And the Russells know that feeling well, thanks to half-siblings Blue Pepsi Lodge ers’ and Owners’ Association board director, Russell and Mach Ride, both out of Rustlewood Farm-bred admits that “the Thoroughbred industry is facing challenging issues.” But he is April Invitation. By Formal Dinner out of April Moment, by For The It was very exciting when Mach also still bullish on the Moment, April Invitation made but Ride (below) and Blue Pepsi Lodge were Florida Thoroughbred industry. five starts and earned $20,100. But both running and winning. We still own “We need to solve some as a broodmare, she became a blackMach Ride and sent five of our broodtype producer before her death in mares to him in 2011. We’re looking forproblems within the indusOctober, 2010. Her last foal was a try like getting our fair ward to his babies. —George Russell share of ADW and other gaming options,” said Russell. “And we need local and state political support if we’re going to do that.

And that’s the key to strengthening the Florida breeding industry.”

But despite the new reality of the Thoroughbred industry on a state and national level, Russell remains steadfast about one thing: “Florida is still the best place to raise and train good racehorses,” he said.

“Our record over the years speaks for itself.” ■ JIM LISA PHOTOS

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As a broodmare, All Considered would continue to contribute to the Russells’ Thoroughbred success. She produced stakes winner Consider Thesource (above). Raced by the Russells, Consider Thesource won the 2005 My Dear Girl Stakes of the Florida Stallion Stakes and earned $269,210

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Following are the “FTBOA Chase to the Championship ” Point Standings through November 9, 2011.

Two-Year-Old Colt/Gelding Fort Loudon (Awesome of Course) - 19 Currency Swap (High Cotton) - 15 Vexor (Wildcat Heir) - 5

Two-Year-Old Filly Candrea (Trippi) - 12 Redbud Road (Awesome of Course) - 8 Awesome Belle (Awesome of Course) - 7

Three-Year-Old Colt/Gelding Brilliant Speed (Dynaformer) - 43 Coil (Point Given) - 26 Toby’s Corner (Bellamy Road) - 18

Three-Year-Old Filly Turbulent Descent (Congrats) - 55 Pomeroys Pistol (Pomeroy) - 34 May Day Rose (Rockport Harbor) - 11

Breeder

Owner

Trainer

Jacks or Better Farm Inc Stonecliff Farm Carlos Rafael & Briggs & Cromartie Bloodstock

Jacks or Better Farm Inc Klaravich Stables Inc & William H Lawrence Gold Mark Farm LLC

Stanley I Gold Teresa M Pompay John C Kimmel

Breeder

Owner

Trainer

Ocala Stud Jacks or Better Farm Inc Jacks or Better Farm Inc

Karl Watson, Michael Pegram & Paul Weitman Jacks or Better Farm Inc Jacks or Better Farm Inc

Bob Baffert Stanley I Gold Stanley I Gold

Breeder

Owner

Trainer

Live Oak Stud Glen Hill Farm Dianne D Cotter

Live Oak Plantation Karl Watson, Michael E Pegram & Paul Weitman Dianne D Cotter

Thomas Albertrani Bob Baffert H Graham Motion

Breeder

Owner

Trainer

Ocala Stud Hardacre Farm LLC

Blinkers On Racing, Dave Aurelio, Robert Butler, Joleen Coons, Lapso, et al Hardacre Farm LLC

Mike Puype Amy Tarrant

Preston Stables LLC Jules Boutelle Robert V LaPenta & Fred J Brei

Charles L Dickey Justin Sallusto Nicholas P Zito

Pinnacle Racing Stable & William A Kaplan IEAH Stables, Whizway Farm, Robert Teel and Pegasus Holding Group Stables Robert Smithen

W Kaplan Richard E Dutrow Brian A Lynch

Older Male (Four-Year-Olds and up Colt/Gelding) Flat Out (Flatter) - 40 Teaks North (Northern Afleet) - 33 Jackson Bend (Hear No Evil) -32

Nikolaus Bock Brylynn Farm Inc Jacks or Better Farm Inc

Older Female (Four-Year-Olds and up Filly/Mare) Musical Romance (Concorde’s Tune) - 44 Amen Hallelujah (Montbrook) - 25 Bay to Bay (Sligo Bay) - 13

Ocala Stud Thorobeam Farm Adena Springs

Male Sprint (Three-Year-Olds and up Colt/Gelding, race distances one mile and less) Jackson Bend (Hear No Evil) - 30 Aikenite (Yes It’s True) - 17 Trappe Shot (Tapit) - 17 Apriority (Grand Slam) - 16

Jacks or Better Farm Inc Brylynn Farm Inc Hobeau Farm Donald R Dizney

Robert V LaPenta & Fred J Brei Dogwood Stable Mill House Donald R Dizney

Nicholas P Zito Todd A Pletcher Kiaran McLaughlin David Fawkes

Female Sprint (Three-Year-Olds and up Filly/Mare, race distances one mile and less) Musical Romance (Concorde’s Tune) - 44 Turbulent Descent (Congrats) - 40 Pomeroys Pistol (Pomeroy) - 34

Ocala Stud Ocala Stud Hardacre Farm LLC

Pinnacle Racing Stable & William A Kaplan Blinkers On Racing, Dave Aurelio, Robert Butler, Joleen Coons, Lapso, et al Hardacre Farm LLC

W Kaplan Mike Puype Amy Tarrant

Jules Boutelle Live Oak Plantation B J Wright

Justin Sallusto Thomas Albertrani Michael Pender

Robert Smithen Frank Carl Calabrese Peter Fuller

Brian A Lynch Nick Canani Milton W Wolfson

Male Turf (Three-Year-Olds and up Colt/Gelding, races run on the turf) Teaks North (Northern Afleet) - 33 Brilliant Speed (Dynaformer) - 23 Jeranimo (Congaree) - 22

Brylynn Farm Inc Live Oak Stud Brylynn Farm Inc

Female Turf (Three-Year-Olds and up Filly/Mare, races run on the turf) Bay to Bay (Sligo Bay) - 13 Romacaca (Running Stag) - 9 Trip for A.J. (Trippi) - 8

Adena Springs Cashel Stud Inc Peter Fuller

■ Selection Criteria for Florida-bred champions Year-end divisional champions will be determined using the “FTBOA Chase to the Championship” point system, a ranking that awards points for success in stakes races.

The “FTBOA Chase to the Championship” allocates points for stakes wins in graded races, open-company stakes and Florida’s signature racing days, with the number of points awarded based upon the classification of the race. International stakes race status is governed by the International Cataloguing Standards Committee. The first three finishers in all Group/Graded and listed races appearing in Part I of the International Cataloguing Standards and International Statistics Book printed by The Jockey Club receive “black-type” designation. Ten point bonus to be awarded to any 2-year-old colt or filly sweeping all three legs of the Florida Stallion Stakes in determining the Champion 2-year-old Florida-bred.

The Florida-bred with the most points in each division on December 31 is deemed champion of that division. Horse of the Year, Broodmare of the Year and Breeder of the Year will be voted on by the FTBOA Board of Directors and announced at the FTBOA’s annual awards dinner.

In the case of a year-end tie in points in any division, earnings will be used to decide the tiebreaker. — Points are assigned as follows:

■ World Thoroughbred Championship ■ Sunshine Millions (equivalent to a Grade 2 Stakes Race): Breeders’ Cup Race: Win: 20 points Place: 15 points Show: 10 points

■ Grade 1 Stakes Race: Win: 15 points Place: 10 points Show: 5 points

■ Grade 2 Stakes Race: Win: 5 points Place: 3 points Show: 2 points

■ Grade 3 Stakes Race: Win: 3 points Place: 2 points Show: 1 point

Win: 5 points Place: 3 points Show: 2 points

■ Other Florida-bred Signature Race Days (equivalent to a Grade 3 Stakes Race):

(The Florida Million, Florida Cup, Florida Stallion Stakes Series): Win: 3 points Place: 2 points Show: 1 point

■ Open-Company Stakes ($50,000 + Purse) Points for WIN ONLY: Win: 2 points THE FLORIDA HORSE • NOVEMBER 2011 35

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Jacks or Better Farm homebreds win both FSS finales, including a division sweep by Fort Loudon

By MICHAEL COMPTON

36 THE FLORIDA HORSE • NOVEMBER 2011

n exciting Festival of the Sun program at Calder Casino and Race Course on Oct. 15 was highlighted by Fort Loudon’s victory in the $300,000 In Reality division of the Florida Stallion Stakes series, which provided Jacks or Better Farm and trainer Stanley Gold an unprecedented third sweep of the series.

The team swept the series last year with eventual Eclipse Award winner Awesome Feather. In 2009, they won all three races of the series with Jackson Bend.

The Jacks or Better runners once again proved superior to their juvenile counterparts this year. In addition to Fort Loudon’s In Reality score, the team also visited the winner’s circle with Awesome Belle in the $300,000

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My Dear Girl division. Her stablemate Redbud Road finished third.

The star of the day, however, was Fort Loudon.

After sweeping to victories in the Dr. Fager and Affirmed divisions, the Florida-bred son of Journeyman Stud stallion Awesome of Course made it three straight stakes scores to secure the sweep.

Fort Loudon broke sharply and tracked Sarava’s Dancer in second around the first turn and down the backstretch. Jockey Luis Jurado asked Fort Loudon to collar the pacesetter at the quarter pole and he did so willingly.

Under brisk urging through the stretch, Fort Loudon shook loose from Sarava’s Dancer in deep stretch and crossed the wire 2 ½ lengths in front of a fast-closing Twin, who edged Sarava’s Dancer for the place spot. Fort Loudon covered the 1 1⁄16 miles in 1:48.29.

“When you have the best horse in the race, you can do anything you want to,” said Jurado. “I knew Cornelio Velasquez with Sarava’s Dancer would try to steal the race up front and I couldn’t let them do that, so I kept my horse just a little off of him and saved some for the stretch.

Fort Loudon (opposite page) and Awesome Belle (below)

THE FLORIDA HORSE • NOVEMBER 2011 37

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her advantage at each call. She coasted through the lane when roused by Jurado and beat Macanuda by 7 ½ lengths. She covered the 1 1⁄16 miles in 1:47.46, which was faster than Fort Loudon’s time in the In Reality.

Awesome Belle had finished behind Redbud Road, third-place finisher in the My Dear Girl, in the Desert Vixen division. She also finished third behind Queen’s Drama and redbud Road in the Susan’s Girl division last time out.

“She kept finding trouble in her races until today,” said Gold. “We put the blinkers on her and she went to the front. No trouble today. We’ve always thought she was a good filly.”

Offspring of Awesome of Course captured five of the six FSS races this year. The FSS victories vaulted him to the top of the leading juvenile list in Florida with progeny earnings of —trainer Stanley Gold $777,625, good for 6th in the nation through mid-October. ■

This horse is the real deal.”

Gold was confident a big performance from Fort Loudon was on tap.

“I guess this is the icing on the cake,” said Gold. “I thought he could do it (sweep). It looked like he hesitated while he was alongside the other horse in the upper stretch before he went on and drew off. I feel so fortunate to have had these nice horses the last few years.”

In the My Dear Girl division, Awesome Belle, also byAwesome of Course, was allowed to dictate the early pace. She carried the field through pedestrian fractions of 25.05, 49.97 and 1:14.58 while increasing

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Florida stallion Awesome of Course and trainer Stanley Gold

She kept finding trouble in her races until today. We put “the blinkers on her and she went to the front. No trouble today. We’ve always thought she was a good filly.”

38 THE FLORIDA HORSE • NOVEMBER 2011

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FLORIDA NEWS

Mucho Macho Man Returns With Stylish Win

By MICHAEL COMPTON Mucho Macho Man lorida-bred Mucho Macho Man, away from the races since a seventh-place finish in the Belmont Stakes (G1) in June, returned on Nov. 9 with a facile victory in an optional claiming race at Aqueduct.

Trainer Kathy Ritvo had her charge ready for a prime performance in the one-mile test. He broke sharply under Ramon Dominguez, blitzed through contested fractions of :23.32, :46.32 and 1:09.86, before pulling away have some options, but we’ll wait to see how from his rivals in the stretch under a hand he comes out of the race and go from there.”

The son of Macho Uno—Ponche de ride late to get the mile in 1:34.72.

“We just let him do what he wanted to Leona, by Ponche, was bred by John and do,” said Ritvo. “He’s feeling really good Carole Rio and races in the colors of Reeves today. He’s been training great, so I thought Thoroughbreds and Dream Team Racing.

“We didn’t have an established plan; we he would run well today. I really didn’t expect anything – I just wanted to get a good were just kind of playing it by ear,” said race into him for a comeback. We definitely Dominguez. “I wasn’t going to be surprised NYRA PHOTO

F

if both the four (Gallant Fields) and the five (Southern Ridge) would go for the lead, but he broke superb and made the lead very much within himself, very easy. He was just on cruise control; turning for home he switched leads right and just took off again. Very, very, nice.”

The win was just his third from 12 career starts. Winner of the Risen Star Stakes (G2) at Fair Grounds in February, Mucho Macho Man finished third in the Louisiana Derby (G2) and in the Kentucky Derby (G1) behind Animal Kingdom.

“It is wonderful to have him back,” said owner Dean Reeves. “He looked very impressive out there today. He is a young 3year-old and Kathy [Ritvo] has done a tremendous job with him, by taking the time needed and allowing him to mature. We hope he is going to be a major player next year.” ■

Call: 352.732.8858 www.facebook.com/thefloridahorse

THE FLORIDA HORSE • NOVEMBER 2011 39

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Florida... the Best State for Business

www.facebook.com/thefloridahorse

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From coast to coast, Florida’s tax-friendly, pro-business environment is poised and ready to attract new companies and create new employment opportunities.

No tax on stallion seasons.

No personal state income tax.

No individual capital gains tax.

National leader in veterinary and equine research.

Ranked third in the U.S. for number of horses and size of horse industry.

Feed and animal health items, along with other specific items, are also exempt.

Horses are exempt from sales tax when purchased from their original breeder.

Florida’s greenbelt exemption provides property tax breaks for Florida horse farms.

Physical climate allows for year-round training, racing, showing and business opportunities.

FLORIDA THOROUGHBRED BREEDERS’ AND OWNERS’ ASSOCIATION 801 SW 60th Ave. • Ocala, FL 34474 • 352-629-2160 Fax: 352-629-3603 • www.ftboa.com • info@ftboa.com

FLORIDA DEPT. OF AGRICULTURE AND CONSUMER SERVICES Adam Putnam, Commissioner 850-921-7916 • Fax 850-922-0374 e-mail: michael.ryshouwer@freshfromflorida.com 407 S. Calhoun • 427-A Mayo Building, Tallahassee, FL 32399

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Clear

Vision

By JO ANN GUIDRY

sk Dr. Thomas L. Croley, the breeder/owner of 2011 Florida-bred stakes winner I’m Steppin’ It Up, how he got into the Thoroughbred business and his answer is a simple one.

“Well, if you like horses and you move to Ocala, then there’s a good chance you’re going to become involved in the Thoroughbred business,” said Croley, an ophthalmologist. “After all, mention Ocala and people think horses.”

Racing in the silks of Croley’s Roman Hill Farm, I’m Steppin’ It Up has to date this season won the Kent Stakes at Delaware Park and the Chief Tamanaco Stakes at Belmont Park.The 3-year-old colt by Congrats out of theThunder Gulch mare Cindy Woo Who, was also third in this year’s Smarty Jones Stakes and Floor Show Stakes. In 2010, I’m Steppin’It Up was third in the Champagne Stakes (G1).

Trained by Anthony Pecoraro, he has career earnings to date of $357,566.

“I’m Steppin’ It Up has been a very nice racehorse for us and he comes from the family that got me started in the business,” said Croley. “I was there at Belmont Park for his stakes win there and it was very exciting. I enjoy going to the races and it’s always good when we can get a win.”

In addition to I’m Steppin’It Up, Croley has bred/raced Florida-bred graded stakes winner Kissin’ Jeb and Florida-bred stakes winners Jeb’s Wild and Thunder Brew.

Multiple stakes winner Kissin’ Jeb, who won the 1999 Reeve Schley Jr. Stakes (G3), is also the dam of Croleybred 2010 graded stakes-placed Exchanging Kisses.

Originally from Tulsa, Oklahoma, Croley moved to Ocala in 1989 and established his Central Florida Eye Institute. Surrounded by horse farms and with friends who owned horses, it didn’t take long for Croley to become involved in the Thoroughbred business.

At the 1991 Ocala Breeders’Sales Company’sApril juvenile sale, Croley paid $16,000 for a Fransworth Farmbred filly by Jeblar out of the Baldski mare Beautiful Bid. 42 THE FLORIDA HORSE • NOVEMBER 2011

Dr. Thomas L. Croley

COURTESY DR. CROLEY

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horses and you move to Ocala, then there’s a “ Well, if you like good chance you’re going to become involved in the Thoroughbred business. After all, mention Ocala and people think horses. ” Brew. Cindy Woo Who’s tongue-twister name came thanks to Croley’s daughter Courtney.

“When Courtney was three, she dressed up for an Orange Bowl pageant as Cindy Lou Who from How The Grinch Stole Christmas,” explained Croley, whose daughter is now 13 and competes in hunter/jumper shows. “But since she was only three, she pronounced it Cindy Woo Who. Later, I thought it sounded like a good name for Jeb’s filly that year.”

Thunder Brew, Cindy Woo Who’s 2007 colt by Milwaukee Brew, won a trio of turf stakes for Croley in 2010.

In the Capital City Stakes at Penn National, he set a course record of 1:33.12 for the mile. To date, Thunder Brew has career earnings of $223,469. Thunder Brew is currently enjoying R&R time at Roman Hill Farm.

Cindy Woo Who produced a 2010 filly by Olmodavor, named Cuppy Cake; she was barren in 2011 and is in foal to Offlee Wild for 2012.

Beautiful Caroline, Jeb’s 1997 filly by With Approval, is the dam of 2011 Florida-bred stakes-placed Blazen.

As a broodmare for Croley, Jeb produced Floridabred stakes winner Jeb’s Wild, by Wild Again, and stakes-placed Pageant Baby, by Broad Brush. Jeb’s Wild won the 2002 Spend A Buck Stakes, 2003 John McSorley Stakes, and was stakes-placed four times to earn $159,457. Pageant Baby was stakes-placed three times on her way to banking $104,213.

Jeb’s legacy for Croley also continues through her daughters Cindy Woo Who and Beautiful Caroline.

While neither earned blacktype at the racetrack, both have become blacktype producers.

Cindy Woo Who is the dam of aforementioned I’m Steppin’ It Up and Florida-bred stakes winner Thunder

Raced by Croley, the 5-year-old gelding by Snow Ridge was second in this season’s Vinery Turf Classic at Tampa Bay Downs. To date, he has a career bankroll of $159,557.

Currently the Roman Hill Farm broodmare band numbers but five with three 2011 foals. Another three yearlings will be sent to be broken soon and Croley’s racing stable stands at five.

“We like to keep our Thoroughbred business a small family operation,” said Croley. “My wife Lori and Courtney help with the chores. We enjoy the horses and going to the races as much as possible.”

All part and parcel of being involved in the Thoroughbred business and living in Ocala. ■

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Named Jeb, the filly became the first stakes winner to carry the silks of Croley’s Roman Hill Farm. Jeb won the 1994 Nauvoo Stakes at Monmouth Park and the 1995 Seton Hall University Stakes at The Meadowlands. She was also stakes-placed five times on her way to earning $181,868.

“As good a racehorse as Jeb was for us, she turned out to be an even better broodmare,” said Croley, who breeds to race. “Her dam, Beautiful Bid, became a champion-producing broodmare and Jeb became our foundation broodmare.”

Beautiful Bid produced Florida-bred Grade 1 multimillionaire full siblings Mecke and Beautiful Pleasure, both by Florida sire Maudlin. On his way to becoming a millionaire and the 1996 Florida-bred co-champion turf horse, Mecke won the Arlington Million Stakes (G1) and Turf Classic Stakes (G1). In 1999, Beautiful Pleasure won the Beldame Stakes (G1), Personal Ensign Handicap (G1) and Breeders’ Cup Distaff (G1). She was named the Florida-bred Horse of the Year and collected an Eclipse Award as champion older female.

Florida-breds Iʼm Steppinʼ It Up (left photo) and Thunder Brew (above) are stakes winners for Croley.

THE FLORIDA HORSE • NOVEMBER 2011 43

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Equine Care

Understanding Recurrent Airway Obstruction

By AMANDA HOUSE, DVM, DACVIM

northeastern and midwestern United States. ecurrent airway obstruction (RAO, The average age of onset in RAO affected also known as heaves, broken wind, horses is 9-12 years, and both genders are comand chronic airway reactivity) is a monly affected.

Winter and spring appear to be the most comcommon respiratory disease of horses characterized by airway narrowing (bronchoconstric- mon seasons for exacerbation of barn-associated RAO, while pasture-associated appears to have tion), mucus production, and bronchospasm.

The most common signs are chronic cough, the most severe symptoms in the summer or nasal discharge, exercise intolerance, and respi- early fall. There does appear to be a heritable component to the etiology of ratory difficulty. The classic “heave line” that can be seen Many of these horses this condition. The incidence of RAO in horses with along the bottom edge of the are able to be excellent healthy parents is approxiribs is due to hypertrophy of pleasure, trail riding, or mately 10 percent, which inthe abdominal muscles, which are assisting in even competition horses creases to 44 percent if two parents are affected. breathing and become large with dedicated owners Diagnosis of RAO can be from excess work. Severely affected horses may also ex- that understand that it is done by your veterinarian on the basis of history and charhibit weight loss, anorexia, considered a chronic acteristic clinical examinaand exercise intolerance. condition that will require tion findings in the majority Most affected horses do not lifelong management. of horses. Additional diaghave a fever unless a secnostic tests to confirm and ondary bacterial pneumonia characterize the lower airway inflammation inhas occurred.

The term COPD is no longer used to de- clude transtracheal aspiration (TTA), bronscribe this condition in horses, because many choalveolar lavage (BAL), lung function testing, aspects of the disease are different from human thoracic radiographs (X-rays) and ultrasound chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Two examination.

Bronchoalveolar lavage is indicated in different forms of RAO are recognized in the horse: the barn associated type often seen in stalled horses fed hay, and summer pasture-associated obstructive pulmonary disease (SPAOPD, also called summer heaves and pasture-associated heaves) seen more commonly in horses living on pasture in the Southeast.

Most evidence suggests that RAO is the result of the lung’s hypersensitivity to inhaled antigens, although multiple theories exist regarding exactly why it occurs. RAO is similar to asthma in people, and has allergic and inflammatory components to the disease. The most common allergic triggers for RAO are mold, organic dust, and endotoxin present in hay and straw.

RAO occurs worldwide, with the highest prevalence in stabled horses fed hay in the

R

44 THE FLORIDA HORSE • NOVEMBER 2011

horses with poor performance and coughing, and is not compulsory in horses with severe disease and suggestive clinical signs. Excess white blood cells called neutrophils are seen on cytology and confirm the presence of lower airway inflammation suggestive of RAO. Radiographs are recommended for horses that fail to respond to standard therapy, or to further characterize inflammation in the lungs.

The most important treatment for RAO is environmental and dietary management to reduce exposure to organic dusts and mold. RAO is a chronic disease that will require lifelong management changes for the horse. Unfortunately, it is not a disease that can be treated for a short time and resolved forever. Many horses with mild to moderate disease can be successfully managed with environmental and dietary changes alone, without additional drug therapy.

The most common triggers for RAO are organic dusts, mold, and endotoxin present in hay and straw. Round bale hay is high in endotoxin and organic dust content, and the presence of round bale hay is a potential cause of treatment failure in horses on pasture. Maintaining horses on pasture full-time is generally recommended for those with barn-associated RAO. Horses with pasture-associated RAO should avoid access to pasture except for the winter months;

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in the Horse

PHOTOS COURTESY UNIVERSITY OF FLORIDA

however, this is not practical for all management situations.

Horses that must be stalled or have pastureassociated RAO should be kept in a clean, wellventilated environment. Try to avoid storing hay above the stalls in a barn loft, and minimize sweeping the floor when affected horses are stalled. Straw is not recommended as bedding for RAO affected horses, and low dust bedding such as chopped paper or cardboard should be considered.

Soaking hay and feed in water prior to feeding may alleviate the signs in mildly affected individuals, however, soaked hay may still exacerbate respiratory signs in more severely affected cases. Moderate to severely affected horses should have all hay removed from the diet and be transitioned to a complete pelleted feed. It is important to remember that although medications will alleviate the clinical signs of RAO, respiratory disease will return if the horse remains in a mold/dust-filled environment once the medications are discontinued.

Systemic corticosteroids and aerosolized bronchodilators are the most immediately helpful therapy for a horse in respiratory distress. Intravenous administration of Dexamethasone should improve lung function within two hours of administration. Dexamethasone may be continued for one to several weeks at a tapering dose (usually quarter the dose every 3-5 days) for severe cases. For management of less severely affected cases of RAO, prednisolone is generally considered to be less potent drug that may have fewer side effects. Oral prednisone is poorly bioavailable, and not recommended for treatment of RAO in horses. Consult your veterinarian for more specific dosages and a treatment schedule for your horse.

Corticosteriods will not provide immediate relief of acute, severe airway obstruction, and rapidly acting bronchodilators (such as albuterol) are indicated for treatment in those cases. Aerosolized albuterol improves lung function and breathing by 70 percent within five

minutes of administration; however, the beneficial effects last only one to three hours. Administration of albuterol will improve the pulmonary distribution of other aerosolized medications, such as aerosolized corticosteroids, and speed mucus clearance from the lungs. Clenbuterol is an oral bronchodilator that provides long-acting bronchodilation in horses with moderate to severe RAO. Since bronchodilators have minimal to no anti-inflammatory activity, they should not generally be used alone for the treatment of RAO. Aerosolized corticosteroids are effective in horses with mild to moderate RAO, and can be used in conjunction with systemic therapy in severe cases. The two aerosolized preparations for administration to horses via the Equine AeroMask (http://www.aeromask.com/Animal_Health/ah_aeromask_es.asp ), the Equine Haler (http://www.jorvet.com/pdf/Literature/2/Equinehaler.pdf ), or the AeroHippus (http://www.tr udellmed.com/animal-

Pictured is a horse undergoing a lung function test.

health/aerohippus) are beclomethasone diproprionate and fluticasone propionate.

Inhaled therapies are beneficial because of reduced side effects from the corticosteroid administration (such as laminitis in rare cases on systemic steroids). However, inhaled therapies tend to require an upfront financial investment to purchase the mask and medications. Despite the financial costs, inhaled treatments target inflammation and allergy directly at the site of the problem, in the lungs.

Additionally, horses in apparent “remission” from RAO may benefit from low dose, long term, aerosolized corticosteroid treatment. Depending on the clinical signs and severity of RAO, horses with this condition can be managed successfully for much if not most of their lives. Many of these horses are able to be excellent pleasure, trail riding, or even competition horses with dedicated owners that understand that it is a considered a chronic condition that will require lifelong management. ■ THE FLORIDA HORSE • NOVEMBER 2011 45

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HORSE COUNCIL NEWS

Efforts to Block Damaging H-2B Rules Continues The horse industry relies on H-2B foreign workers to operate. H-2B workers are used by horse trainers and owners who cannot find American workers to fill semi-skilled jobs at racetracks, horse shows, fairs and in similar non-agricultural activities. The Department of Labor (DOL) is about to adopt two new rules concerning the H-2B program that could significantly impact horse employers who

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46 THE FLORIDA HORSE • NOVEMBER 2011

utilize it. The AHC fears these actions DOL rules could have on businesses that could make the H-2B program essentially rely on the H-2B program Congress is taking action to block the rules,” said AHC unusable for many employers.

“Both of these DOL rules could hurt Legislative Director Ben Pendergrass. horse industry employers who rely on this “The Senate has included a provision in program,” said AHC President Jay Hickey. the bill that funds the DOL that would pre“Employers would much rather hire Amer- vent the wage rule from going into effect. icans, but Americans just aren’t taking In the House Congressman Rodney these jobs. Since H-2B rule changes under Alexander (R-LA) has introduced a bill the Bush administration the H-2B program that would prohibit DOL from implehas been functioning relatively well. How- menting, amending or enforcing the H-2B ever, these DOL actions could change that wage rule or the proposed rule that would make changes to the entire program. and increase the cost of the program.”

Specifically, the DOL will begin using While there is bi-partisan support for these efforts its not going to a new formula for calculating be easy to get either of these prevailing wages on Nov. bills through Congress in the 30.Originally, this rule was to current environment.” go into effect in January of The AHC is asking mem2012, it was then moved up bers of the horse industry to to Sept. 30, 2011 and was call or email their Representhen delayed until Nov. 30. tatives and ask them to coThis regulation will imsponsor H.R. 3162 introduced pact H-2B users who have

by Congressman Alexander labor certifications that are that would block these two valid after Nov. 30, 2011 rule changes. and anyone hiring H-2B “All you have to do is call workers in the future. The the Congressional switchnew wage formula will raise board at (202) 225-3121. Ask the wage rate most H-2B for your Representative’s ofemployers will be required fice and tell the staff member to pay. There are reports who answers the phone that from the horse industry of the H-2B program is imporwage determinations that tant to the horse industry and are 10 percent to 30 percent Jay Hickey ask that the Congressman cohigher under the new forsponsor H.R. 3162,” said Pendergrass. mula.

“There is a lot of opposition to these Additionally, in December the DOL is planning to finalize a second rule that will two rules. Members of Congress are inaffect the program further. The rule will troducing legislation and lawsuits have likely require employers to hire any quali- been filed in Florida and Louisiana to fied U.S. worker up to three days before the block the wage rule,” said Hickey. “It H-2B worker is scheduled to begin and re- won’t be easy, but we hope that through quire employers to pay transportation and either Congressional or legal action these subsistence costs for potential U.S. workers. rule changes are prevented from going “Because of the severe impact these into effect.”

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FLORIDA HORSE PARK

ItWas a Big Day n the pre-dawn hours of ucated guests on the history and excitement of Thoroughbred trainThursday, Oct. 27, staff at the ing and racing…as Thoroughbreds Florida Agriculture Center galloped by just feet away on the and Horse Park welcomed six track. large luxury tour buses, two police Stop 2: The Sanctuary Equine escorts, and a team of volunteers Sports Therapy and Rehabilitation into the entrance of the Park.

Center, where all witnessed the It was the kind of morning you Connie Duff Wise workings of an equine hyperbaric don’t see every day, and there was Chairman of the Board a tiny nervous buzz in the air.

Florida Agricultural Center chamber, saltwater leg spa, solarand Horse Park ium, equine swimming, and more.

“Anybody want coffee?

Stop 3: Fox Grove Farm and world chamDonuts? Need help with those bags? Which pion Lynn Palm, where, during lunch, Palm bus am I assigned to? Are we on schedule?”

We were indeed on schedule because it presented a delightful riding presentation of was, after all, the morning of the Second An- western dressage, followed by autographs and nual Florida Horse Park Fall Farm Tour, pre- Q&A sessions. sented by Great American Insurance. In about Stop 4: Back to the Florida Agriculture 20 minutes, a sell-out crowd of 300 would be Center and Horse Park, with a final guided tour arriving at the Park, ready to enjoy a full, fun of the Park, its current structures and future day of behind-the-scenes horse farm tours at master development plan. premier facilities throughout Marion County.

In addition to the wonderful farms and volThe day hit fast-forward at 7:45 a.m. Cars unteers who helped make the day possible, we filed onto the property in droves, checked in extend thanks to local media coverage of our with their tickets, and were immediately introduced to their first horses of the day – delightful tiny equines from Gentle Therapy Miniature Horses, dressed in colorful costumes and prepared to pose with all who had cameras.

At 8:30 a.m. sharp, loaded buses pulled out of the Park and headed to three major farms that graciously volunteered their time, facilities and staff for the day.

Stop 1: Plumley Farms, where Richard Kent and local trainers, riders and grooms ed-

I

Fall Farm Tour. WCJB-TV20 News and the Ocala Star-Banner, as well as The Florida Horse magazine, have been so supportive of our work to raise funds to build out the Florida Agriculture Center and Horse Park, and we are sincerely grateful.

As we explained to our ticket holders/guests — the reason for the Oct. 27 tour was threefold: 1. To have a great time and to showcase amazing farms and horses that are typically off-limits to the general public. Each farm provided a safe environment with amazing demos that our guests will not soon forget.

2. To learn about agriculture and understand, firsthand, the many details and hard work involved in maintaining a farm and training center and producing outstanding livestock.

3. To raise funds for the quality operations and development of the Florida Agriculture Center and Horse Park.

We appreciate your role in helping us deliver this momentum for the Florida Agriculture Center and Horse Park.

For more information, to volunteer, or to become a sponsor or donor please visit us at www.flhorsepark.com, or call (352) 307-6699, ext. 8.

COURTESY FLORIDA HORSE PARK

Introducing our friends to horses and agriculture for the long-term benefit of all.

THE FLORIDA HORSE • NOVEMBER 2011 47

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USA WinsTeam Gold; Canada’s By

By LOUISE LOUISE PARKES PARKES merican merican riders riders scooped scooped Eventing eventing Team team gold goldininconvincing convincing fashion fashion at the at Pan-American the Pan-American Games Games in Guadalajara, in Guadalajara, Mexico Mexico in October in October when allwhen five team-members all five team sensationally members sensationally completedcompleted on their Dressage on their scores. dressageBut scores. the USA But had the U.S. to settle hadfor to settle silver and for silver bronzeand in the bronze battle in for the the battle Individual for the title, individual as Canada’s title,Jessica as Phoenix Canada’sstood Jessica firm to Phoenix capitalize stood onfirm the to advantage capitalizeshe on had the adestablished vantage she in the hadDressage established arena. in the dressage arena.

It was a historic result for 28-year-old Phoenix, It waswho a historic hails from result Uxbridge, for 28-year-old Ontario, as Phoenix, she is only whothe hails second fromCanadian Ontario,rider as she ever is to only earn theindividual second Canadian Eventingrider goldever in the to earn history individual of the Pan-American eventing gold inGames. the history Riding of the nine-year-old Pan-American Westphalian Games. Riding gelding,the Pavarotti, nineshe year-old set the Westphalian target withgelding, a Dressage Pavarotti, markshe of 43.90 set the and target never with looked a dressage back. mark A of flawless 43.90 Cross and never Country looked performance back. Aon flawless Saturdaycross was followed country performance by another copybook was followed round byover anthe other coloured clean round poles to over clinch the individual poles to clinch gold.

“It’s individual a dream gold. come true”, she said afterwards.

The “It’s Dressage a dream come placings true,” proved she said. pivotal, as the The top four dressage all remained placings within proved thatpivotal, grouping, as the although top four America’s all remained Sue Burnett within that and

feel bad that. for Michael - I almost feel guilty winning We are such a close team, I feel sitting You want come a team, bad forhere.

Michael.

You to want to as come as a win aswin a team leave a team and that’s team, as aand team andas leave as a- team, and what to do”,tohedo.” pointed out durthat’swe’re what going we’re going ingCross the post-competition press conference. country day was busy, with 17 Cross Country wasretirement busy, with 17 elim-a eliminations andday one from inations one retirement from a starting field startingand field of 49 runners, but eight of 49 runners, but eight horse-and-rider comhorse-and-rider combinations returned binations returned clear within limit of clear within within the thetime time limit limit ofthe nine oftime nine minutes, min9utes, 30 seconds.

Phoenix was one of the 30minutes seconds.

30 seconds.

Phoenix Phoenix was one was ofone the of latter, the latter, timing herround roundto perfection when when latter, and timed time her her round toto perfection perfection

Results Teams: GOLD - USA 138.60, Schoensgreen Hanni (Michael Pollard) 44.50, Harbour Pilot (Hannah Burnett) 45.20, Absolute Liberty (Bruce Davidson Jr) 48.90, Ballingowan Pizazz (Shannon Lilley) 49.30, Donner (Lynn Symansky) 52.20; SILVER - Canada 172.50, Pavarotti (Jessica Phoenix) 43.90, Roquefort (Rebecca Howard) 62.90, Gustav (James Atkinson) 65.70, Foxwood High (Selena O’Hanlon) 79.20, Five O’Clock Somewhere (Hawley Bennett) 79.60; BRONZE - Brazil 209.80, Barbara TW (Serguei Fofanoff) 61.80, Josefine MCJ (Marcio Jorge) 66.80, Land Jimmy (Jesper Mrtendal) 81.20, Eleda All Black (Marcelo Tosi) 94.30, Tom Bombadill Too (Ruy Fonseca) 1,000.00

Individual: GOLD - Pavarotti (Jessica Phoenix) CAN 43.90; SILVER - Harbour Pilot (Hannah Burnett) USA 45.20; BRONZE - Absolute Liberty (Bruce Davidson Jr) USA 48.90.

Facts and Figures: The Ground Jury for Eventing at the 2011 PanAmerican Games consisted of Argentina’s Janine Cicurel Rohr, America’s Wayne Quarles and Alain James from France (President).

The two teams which qualified for the London Olympic Games in Eventing were Brazil and Argentina. 33,000 spectators were present on Cross Country day.

TROLLOPE PHOTO

A

Harbour Pilot improved from third fill silgrouping, although America’s SuetoBurnett ver medal spot in the final analysis.

Teamand Harbour Pilot improved from third to mate, upanalyfrom fill theBruce silver Davidson medal spotJr., in moved the final fourth to take Brice the bronze at theJr.expense of sis.

Teammate Davidson moved up fellow-American Michael Pollardatwho from fourth to take the bronze thenarexrowly of missed a medal-placing with two pense fellow-American Michael Pollard fences down on the final afternoon. with who narrowly missed a medal-placing medown and this whole our goal two“For fences on the finalteam, afternoon. was“For to me winand team thisgold,” wholesaid team,Davidson. our goal “There joy in was to was winmore teampressure gold,” and saidmore Davidson. winningwas that.

We pressure are suchand a close “There more moreteam, joy inI

Jessica Phoenix THEFLORIDA FLORIDAHORSE HORSE• •NOVEMBER NOVEMBER2011 2011 48THE 2

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Jessica Phoenix Claims Individual Title whose father, Bruce Davidson Sr., had claimed individual gold four years earlier.

“The Mexican Federation deserves a huge round of applause from all of us,” said David O’Connor at the end of the competition, “and congratulations to the Americans, they had real camaraderie that showed.”

“None of us would be here without the

team of people that we have behind us, from our coaches to our support staff to our families at home who are probably both cheering and crying right now,” said Canada’s newly-crowned individual gold medallist Phoenix, who sang Pavarotti’s praises. “I love this horse, and I am so excited for his future!” she said.

Young Horse Show Series Held in Ocala

By VICTORIA DEMORE n Oct. 16, 33 young sport horses and their connections gathered in Ocala for the Young Horse Show Series horse show. The beautiful day was filled with 12 classes aimed to help young horses develop and demonstrate aptitudes to their disciplines. Sport horses ranging in age from yearlings to five-year-olds - competed under saddle, in hand, over fences, in the jump chute, and in dressage tests.

The qualifier on was hosted by Cav-I Farm and Sakura Hill Farm and boasted $3,000 in prizes. Cav-I Farm provided a beautiful venue for these well-bred sport horses to demonstrate their movement, rideability, and scope.

High scores earned 26 horses the right to compete in the December Finals held in Wellington.

The show provided horses - and owners an opportunity to learn and improve in a smaller setting with less pressure than a larger, more expensive show. Spectators applauded all horses both in admiration and to accustom the young equines to the sound. Congratulations to all who competed.

O

In-hand Yearling – Kyra Bay (owned and bred by Iconic Bay Equestrian) In-hand 2 Year Old – St. Albans (owned and bred by Nina Spivy) In-hand 3 Year Old – Armani SL Z (owned by Linda Bakker, bred by Thierry Hendrickx) In-hand 4 & 5 Year Olds – Centerfold ZF (owned by Stacey MacLeod, bred by Zondervan Farm)

DEMORE PHOTO

breaking the beam two seconds inside the optimum time after a great tour of the 5,225 metre track designed by America’s John Williams.

“Pavarotti is such a great cross-country horse,” Phoenix said. “He’s straight and bold and has an incredible gallop. I’m so proud of him, because he jumped extremely well the whole way.”

And he was foot-perfect again in both rounds of the final Jumping phase. The team result was decided in the first of these when the top three individual results from each country were taken into account. Phoenix, Rebecca Howard (Roquefort) and James Atkinson (Gustav) combined their scores for a mark of 172.50, which left them with a 36-point advantage over the bronze medallists from Brazil whose top three finishers were Serguei Fofanoff (Barbara TW), Marcio Jorge (Josefine MCJ) and Jesper Martendal (Land Jimmy).

But the winning side was never in doubt as all five Americans completed without a single fault to add to their dressage scores.

Their final tally of 138.60 left them with a 33.9-point winning margin.

And it was an extra-important day for the bronze medal winners from Brazil as they, along with the fourth-placed Argentineans, secured qualification for the 2012 Olympic Games in London.

According to the rules of the Pan-American Games, only the best three from each team are permitted to advance to the Individual final round, so the two Americans Shannon Lilly (Ballingowan Pizazz) and Lynn Symansky (Donner) had to watch from the sidelines as 25-year-old Hannah Burnett steered Harbour Pilo—an eight-year-old Irish Sport Horse produced by Canadian team leader and 2000 Olympic Games Individual gold medallist David O’Connor of the USA—into Individual silver spot ahead of Davidson with Absolute Liberty. This was the first Pan-American medal for Davidson, who finished sixth at the Games in 1999 and

Jump Chute 2 Year Old – Eristocrat MAS (owned by Elizabeth and Jay Ralstin, bred

by MAS) Jump Chute 3 Year Old – Armani SL Z (owned by Linda Bakker, bred by Thierry Hendrickx) Jump Chute 4 & 5 Year Olds – Beaudacious (owned and bred by Sandi Lieb) 4 Year Old Under Saddle – Cormorant (owned and bred by Sandi Lieb) 5 Year Old Under Saddle – Beaudacious (owned and bred by Sandi Lieb) 4 Year Old Jumping – Quintini (owned by Wendy Peralta, bred by Bonnie Smith) 4 Year Old Dressage Test Level 1 – Centerfold ZF (owned by Stacey MacLeod, bred by Zondervan Farm) 5 Year Old Dressage Test Level 4 – Beaudacious (owned and bred by Sandi Lieb) For those who missed this one, plans are in the works for another show to be held in Spring 2012. If interested, be sure to check out the finals this December in Wellington to see first-hand what the Young Horse Show Series is all about.

The Young Horse Show Series is sponsored

by Spy Coast Farm in cooperation with The North American Studbook.

THE FLORIDA HORSE • NOVEMBER 2011 49

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NEWS BITS

Linda Parelli Announces 2012 Tour magine a pitch-black arena filled with thousands of antsy spectators. Every one of you is standing up, breathing, waiting. As the music rises, it launches the 2012 Horse & Soul Parelli World Tour. Drumbeats fill your chest and the hair stands up on your arms. Out of the darkness bursts not a mustached cowboy, but a petite, blond woman with high black boots and dressage saddle.

With a massive chestnut Hanoverian by her side, she sails across the arena waving to 4,000 cheering spectators and smiles.

This is Pat’s better half.And this is her tour.

Linda Parelli is a student and a seeker who has pushed her own horsemanship in order to be a conduit of inspiration for others. For the 2012 Horse & Soul Tour, she will harvest two decades of passionate devotion to natural horsemanship and pour it out on fans in 11 U.S. cities.

Perhaps because of her persistence, Linda Parelli is now widely considered one tion of Horsenality™, a concept which of horsemanship’s finest communicators.As Linda developed and communicates with the most dedicated student of the system that zeal, round out the weekend events. bears her husband’s name, Linda Parelli is cel“Her work in horsenality, rider posture, ebrated for her intuitive coaching which she contact and collection is pioneering a new delivers with wit, compassion and kindness. frontier in horsemanship. These topics apply “Linda is the hardest worker I know,” said to any rider, regardless of discipline,” Pat Parher husband Pat Parelli who will teach along- elli said. side her during the 2012 Horse & Soul Tour.

In perennial collaboration, Linda and her “Her passion as an educator is reaching a fever horses don’t just perform at tour stops, they pitch and I don’t think anyone has experienced captivate. Surprises are embraced and then even the tip of what she has to offer.” sorted with the intelligence and precision Because of her dresThis is Pat’s better half. And this is her tour. sage background and the Tour Cities and Dates: available only to those diversity of her students, Feb 11-12 Lexington, VA the 2012 Horse & Soul who have spent long Feb 25-26 Conyers, GA tour will encompass both hours earning them.

March 30-Apr1 Harrisburg, PA English and Western disWatching Linda engage May 5-6 City Of Industry, CA ciplines. It will feature her dressage horses in an May 19-20 Puyallup, WA the now-famous Seven extended trot or in a series June 2-3 Columbus, OH Games™ that are the of flying lead changes, July 21-22 St Paul, MN Oct 13-14 Katy, TX foundation of Parelli sysimpels her students to Oct 27-28 Murfreesboro, TN tem. Tips for fool-proofcome up higher; to work Dec 1-2 Tampa, FL ing lead changes and harder, to learn more, to Dec 8-9 Williamston, NC instruction on Pat’s nogrow.

50 THE FLORIDA HORSE • NOVEMBER 2011

COURTESY PAT AND LINDA PARELLI

I

Linda Parelli

But best of all, those who know her will tell you, Linda Parelli is funny.

At a demonstration once, Linda trotted past a capacity crowd on her Dutch Warmblood Remmer and, mildly annoyed with her bouncing sunglasses, took them off and winged them into the audience.

“That wasn’t an Elvis thing,” she said. “I want those back.”

The crowd laughed and cheered its approval for the woman many people in the horsemanship world consider, bigger than Elvis.

But the beautiful thing about Linda Parelli is that no matter how big the venue or how bright the star, the relationship with the horse is always paramount.

And that is the very essence of the 2012 Tour.

Admissiontothe2012Horse&SoulParelliWorld Tour is $25 in advance and includes admission for both days. Parelli Members can receive up to seven freetickets.Formoreinformationortopurchasetickets parellihorseandsoul.com or 855-PARELLI.

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(ex•cel•lence) noun

the fact or state of excelling; superiority; distinction; possessing good qualities in high degree.

For the fifth consecutive year,

Get noticed

352.732.8858 The Florida Horse is the official publication of the Florida Thoroughbred Breeders’ and Owners’ Association www.ftboa.com • www.facebook.com/thefloridahorse

Publisher: Richard Hancock • Editor in chief: Michael Compton Business manager: Patrick Vinzant • Art director: John Filer Administrative assistant: Beverly Kalberkamp

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FARM MANAGEMENT

The Height ofYour Pastures n the past few months I have found myself speaking to, and going to several farms where the pastures have “gone downhill” in recent years.

Pastures that were once lush and thick with Bahia grass are now sparse and weedy.

The owners/managers don’t seem to understand why this has happened. Soil tests show unremarkable results. Often times, there has also been some weed management and liming done when needed. Then I ask, “How short do you mow the pastures and how short do you let the grass get, when grazed?” The answer each time has been “three or fewer inches.” Problem essentially solved. Let me explain.

Management of the pastures can have a dramatic impact on the pasture yield, nutritive value and stand longevity of the grass. Interestingly, healthy pastures needed for both optimum horse health and for water protection. Nitrogen is a needed nutrient for grass to maintain good health, but when found in the soil in excess amounts, can pollute our springs and aquifer. Because of this, maintaining and managing pastures correctly is an important step in best management practices (BMP’s).

When a pasture lacks grass, nutrients like nitrogen cannot be taken up by anything, so the excess goes directly into our water. Those pastures that have “gone downhill” are now unable to benefit the horse or water.

So, let’s get back to the original problem of having a pasture with grass that’s too short. When mowing a pasture, the deck of the mower should never be lower than five inches. Horses actually prefer to graze a slightly longer grass, six to eight inches, versus a shorter, closerto-the-root grass.

When the only option available is to graze shortly mowed grass, they will eat what is there. The problem is, repeated too short mowing and heavy grazing of these pastures will remove too much of the leaf and also weaken the root structure, making plant recovery difficult.

I

52 THE FLORIDA HORSE • NOVEMBER 2011

Now that the root health of the grass is compromised, both shorter root length and sparser root growth will follow. The end result is grass with a very fragile root system, so grass easily gets pulled out of the ground. At this point, bare spots come into the paddock and weeds are able to take over. Thus starts a vicious cycle and fixing this error can take time and effort to repair. Always consider these rules of thumb for any grass: pastures should never be mowed shorter than five inches or grazed lower than three. At that point, animals should be removed until the grass height returns to at least six inches.

Now that cooler weather is here, planting rye grass may be a good way to start a new, improved management system. For starters, be sure to over seed when planting rye grass. Planting should have been done, ideally, somewhere between October and November.

Keep the horses out of the paddocks until the ryegrass is established and don’t overstock to maintain pasture health. Hopefully, your ryegrass will come up nicely, look good and help take up nitrogen. Annual ryegrass tends to take up quite a bit of nitrogen (even more than your warm season grasses.) Then when spring rolls around, the growing season can now be started correctly with a higher mowing deck, giving the paddocks a great first step towards optimal health.

If you want to maintain the beauty of your farm, it’s certainly OK to mow perimeter fencing short, leaving a park-like appearance. And with the now heightened pastures, the Bahia will have a fighting chance to stay lush and healthy, adding to the beauty and usefulness of the farm.

As always, keep up the good management practices.

Schedule a Farm Call: Jamie A. Cohen Farm Outreach Coordinator UF IFAS/Marion County Extension Service 352-671-8792 • jamiecohen@ufl.edu

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FLORIDA NEWS

Royal Delta Brings $8.5 Million at Keeneland Florida’s Benjamin Leon acquires Breeders’ Cup Ladies Classic winner

By KEENELAND PUBLICITY oyal Delta, winner of the $2 million Breeders’ Cup Ladies’ Classic (G1) on Nov. 4 and probable 3-year-old filly champion, sold for $8.5 million, a Keeneland record for a horse in training, near the close of the Nov. 8 session of Keeneland’s November Breeding Stock Sale.The filly was purchased by Benjamin Leon’s Besilu Stables and consigned by Chanteclair Farm, agent for the complete dispersal of Palides Investments N.V., Inc (Prince Saud bin Khaled).

The previous Keeneland record for a horse in training was the $6.1 million paid byAaron Jones for the graded stakes-winning colt Half Ours, consigned by Taylor Made Sales Agency, at the 2006 November Sale. The previous record for a filly sold in training is the $4.6 million paid for champion Open Mind at the 1989 November Sale.

Leon, who said Royal Delta was a birthday gift for his wife, Silvia, confirmed that the filly will race again next year, though it is undecided who will train her.

“This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity and she’s the whole package,” he said. “As I’ve said before, my passion is breeding.

I can’t think of a better mare to breed in the future than her. But I also can’t think of a better filly to enjoy now on the track than her. So we’re going to enjoy her at the track as long as she can do that, and then there will be the day that she will become a mom and begin to have babies, but no rush on that. We want to give her all the opportunity to do her thing.”

In addition to the Breeders’ Cup Ladies’ Classic, Royal Delta, a three-year-old filly

by Empire Maker out of multiple graded stakes winner Delta Princess, by A.P. Indy, won the 2011 TVG Alabama (G1) and Black-Eyed Susan (G2).

KEENELAND PHOTOS BY Z

R

Royal Delta sold to Benjamin Leon (at left) for $8.5 million.

“The timing couldn’t have been more perfect (with winning the Breeders’ Cup),” said Ron Wallace, president and general manager of Prince Saud’s Chanteclair Farm. “She’s a proven package. She’ll probably have a better year next year. If you want a racehorse and a broodmare, she’s got it all. She is a star.”

Bill Mott, trainer of Royal Delta, watched the filly sell and echoed those sentiments.

“There’s something special about being around her,” he said. “She’s such a professional. She’s a very smart, alert and aware filly. She turned it on in the Alabama, and the Breeders’ Cup and then the sales ring.”

Leon also purchased a weanling halfsister by Smart Strike to Royal Delta for $1.6 million.

“These mares that we have acquired and this filly are automatically putting us light years ahead of where our whole program would’ve been,” Leon said. “The stars aligned and the opportunity was here.”

A total of 20 horses were sold on the day for $16,813,000 as part of the Palides Investments dispersal, for an average of $840,650 and a median of $105,000.

Eight horses sold for a million dollars or more, boosting the two-day total to 22.

“It was another great day across the board,” said Keeneland Vice President of Sales Walt Robertson. “It again was led by a dispersal. Not as large (as Monday’s dispersal of the estate of Edward P. Evans), but certainly a beautiful consignment, and they topped it with a mare that did everything single thing right. I don’t know what else you could have asked one horse to do. She had family. She had a dam that could run. She wins the Breeders’ Cup. Of course she brought a lot of money, and she should have.”

Cumulatively, Keeneland has sold 285 horses for $114,681,500, up 63 percent from last year when 326 horses sold for $70,345,000. Average price of $402,391 increased 86.4 percent from $215,782 in 2010, while the median of $220,000 rose 62.9 percent from $135,000.

Breeders’ Cup Ladies’ Classic winners headlined the second session, with 2010 winner Unrivaled Belle bringing the day’s second-highest price of $2.8 million from Betty Moran’s Brushwood Stable.

Moran, who placed her bids via phone with Keeneland auctioneer Justin Holmberg, said she “is very excited and looking forward to having (Unrivaled Belle) in her broodmare band.”

A five-year-old daughter of Unbridled’s Song, Unrivaled Belle is out of the multiple graded stakes-winning Bertrando mare Queenie Belle. In addition to the Breeders’ THE FLORIDA HORSE • NOVEMBER 2011 53

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FLORIDA NEWS

Cup Ladies’Classic, Unrivaled Belle won the 2010 La Troienne (G2) and Rampart (G3), for earnings of more than $1.8 million.

She was consigned as a broodmare prospect by Eaton Sales, agent for breeder/owners Peter Vegso and Gary Seidler.

“She is a great horse. We loved her,” said Vegso. “It’s always been an emotional roller coaster with her. It was an adventure with her every time you went to the track. But this was a great result.”

Eaton Sales’ Reiley McDonald reported that Unrivaled Belle will remain in Kentucky though breeding plans are undecided at this time.

The Palides Investments dispersal afforded horsemen the unique opportunity to buy mares from families not usually available in the commercial market. That fact was underscored by Frank Stronach’s purchase of multiple graded stakes winner Delta Princess, dam of Royal Delta, in foal to Distorted Humor, for $2.6 million and her half-sister, Camargue, in foal to Street Sense, for $1.65 million.

“It’s all about the family,” he said after signing the ticket for the pair. “I like the family.”

Jane and Frank Lyon Jr. of Summerwind Farm went to $2.1 million for Love Me Only (IRE), a three-year-old Sadler’s Wells mare sold in foal to European Horse of theYear Sea the Stars. Out of multiple graded stakes winner Mariah’s Storm, Love Me Only is a halfsister to European Horse of the Year and leading sire Giant’s Causeway and group stakes winner You’resothrilling. She was consigned by Eaton Sales, agent.

“That bloodline will go down in history probably as one of the best ever,” said Jane Lyon. “So I’m very excited to have a young Sadler’s Wells mare. You just do not get a better pedigree. And she’s in foal to Sea the Stars. I was fortunate enough to see him a year or so ago right after he came off the track and he was a remarkable animal. So I can hardly wait for the baby.”

■ Million-dollar race fillies and broodmares consigned as part of the complete dispersal of Edward P. Evans’ Spring Hill Farm, led by the sale of Grade 1 stakes winner Christmas Kid for $4.2 million, fueled significant increases in gross sales on opening day at Keeneland’s November Breeding Stock Sale.

The $4.2 million paid for Christmas Kid marks the highest price paid for a broodmare at Keeneland since Playful Act (IRE) sold for $10.5 million at the 2007 November Sale.

The mare was one of 14 horses to bring one million dollars or more at Keeneland ont he first day, eclipsing the eight million-dollar horses sold during last year’s entire November Sale. Eleven of the million-dollar horses were consigned as part of the Evans dispersal.

Keeneland also notched a new record for the sale of a weanling filly. Leon’s Besilu Stables paid $2.6 million for a half-sister by Medaglia d’Oro to Horse of the Year Saint Liam and stakes winners Congressionalhonor, Quiet Giant and Dance Quietly from the Evans dispersal. The previous record of $2.4 million was set in November 2006 for a filly by Gone West out of Islington (IRE).

Dance Move, by Capote, the five-year-old Cat Moves is a half-sister to stakes winner Dance Hall Days. ■

54 THE FLORIDA HORSE • NOVEMBER 2011

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Leading Florida Sires The following list includes currently active, deceased, and pensioned stallions, with racing results updated through November 8, 2011. Statistics provided by The Jockey Club Information Systems Inc.

WILDCAT HEIR

GRAEME HALL

LEROIDESANIMAUX

Name

Sire Name

Farm Name

NA Stk Gr Earnings Strtrs Wnrs SW's Wins SW's Earnings

Leading Earner

Wildcat Heir

Forest Wildcat

Journeyman Stud

$4,164,157

174

94

8

13

2

$4,200,926

John Johny Jak

Leroidesanimaux (BRZ) Candy Stripes

Stonewall Farm Ocala

$3,798,361

84

42

5

7

4

$3,977,090

Graeme Hall

Dehere

Winding Oaks

$2,884,288

121

72

3

3

3

Chapel Royal

Montbrook

Signature Stallions

$2,530,123

198

89

1

2

Concorde's Tune

Concorde Bound deceased

$2,284,844

74

36

1

With Distinction

Storm Cat

Hartley/De Renzo

$2,154,325

122

59

Strong Hope

Grand Slam

Winding Oaks

$2,059,718

116

Greatness

Mr. Prospector

Stonewall Farm Ocala

$2,104,015

Montbrook

Buckaroo

Ocala Stud

Pomeroy

Boundary

Vinery

Put It Back

Leading Yrlg Earnings Sold

Yrlg Avg

2yo Sold

2yo Avg

$200,061

24

$26,458

16

$39,531

Animal Kingdom

$1,904,900

21

$37,293

3

$53,500

$2,890,880

Duke of Mischief

$719,881

12

$19,342

5

$17,600

0

$2,539,698

Navy Chapel

$108,855

17

$14,629

11

$19,836

5

1

$2,318,175

Musical Romance $1,040,734

7

$27,214

1

2

0

$2,178,369

Decisive Moment

$334,300

21

$26,200

38

$26,250

62

2

4

0

$2,170,727

Clement Rock

$226,494

4

$2,375

4

$16,750

70

41

3

9

1

$2,104,015

Immortal Eyes

$229,215

1

$1,000

1

$2,000

$2,055,817

81

42

3

6

2

$2,068,650

Tackleberry

$599,667

4

$16,500

12

$35,142

$1,925,051

74

37

6

10

2

$2,026,061

Pomeroys Pistol

$461,188

13

$28,423

17

$78,235

Honour and Glory Bridlewood Farm

$1,818,540

158

62

6

9

2

$1,963,281

It's Me Mom

$157,300

32

$17,556

24

$27,000

D'wildcat

Forest Wildcat

Vinery

$1,703,522

108

52

1

1

0

$1,833,028

D'wild Ride

$115,175

19

$18,142

24

$31,279

Halo's Image

Halo

deceased

$1,806,787

78

40

5

6

1

$1,810,932

Atlantic Hurricane

$303,454

4

$5,675

4

$12,250

Full Mandate

A.P. Indy

Hartley/De Renzo

$1,776,684

114

60

1

1

0

$1,780,391

Full of Gut

$124,120

3

$1,400

5

$17,540

Value Plus

Unbridled's Song Stonewall Farm Ocala

$1,716,513

115

62

1

1

0

$1,744,735

All Due Respect

$70,638

21

$10,976

4

$41,250

Roar of the Tiger

Storm Cat

deceased

$1,520,483

108

53

3

4

0

$1,520,483

Tazz

$134,438

6

$8,833

9

$14,667

Three Wonders

Storm Cat

deceased

$1,378,289

101

53

1

2

0

$1,392,026

Trelawny

$87,667

Suave

A.P. Indy

Vinery

$1,220,986

95

44

1

1

0

$1,370,283

Indy Tune

$80,746

16

$6,433

2

$6,500

West Acre

Forty Niner

Stonehedge South

$1,328,025

49

33

4

4

1

$1,328,025

Watch Me Go

$258,070

1

$2,500

5

$9,900

Black Mambo

Kingmambo

deceased

$1,278,048

84

44

1

1

0

$1,293,094

Big Push

$109,180

3

$5,000

3

$10,903

Burning Roma

Rubiano

Rising Hill

$1,255,727

85

48

3

3

0

$1,257,634

Queen Drama

$126,705

6

$6,833

Mass Media

Touch Gold

Journeyman Stud

$1,056,021

38

31

3

8

0

$1,065,119

Manicero

$229,500

6

$19,917

Indian Ocean

Stormy Atlantic

Bridlewood Farm

$1,041,109

81

38

1

1

0

$1,041,109

Ocean Princess

$121,964

8

$5,063

7

$12,286

B L's Appeal

Valid Appeal

Randolph Thoroughbreds $1,026,181

67

40

0

0

0

$1,026,181

B L's Tsumani

$73,988

2

$1,000

2

$3,200

City Place

Storm Cat

Hartley/De Renzo

56

33

2

2

0

$1,011,811

City Sage

$112,042

6

$9,583

16

$32,469

$977,811

THE FLORIDA HORSE • NOVEMBER 2011 55

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Leading Florida Juvenile Sires The following list includes currently active, deceased, and pensioned stallions, with racing results updated through November 8, 2011. Statistics provided by The Jockey Club Information Systems Inc.

AWESOME OF COURSE

CHAPEL ROYAL

HIGH COTTON

Name

Sire Name

Farm Name

NA Stk Gr Earnings Strtrs Wnrs SW's Wins SW's Earnings

Awesome of Course

Awesome Again

Journeyman Stud

$777,625

5

3

3

6

0

$777,625

Fort Loudon

$333,485

Dixie Union

Ocala Stud

$475,648

26

10

1

1

1

$501,675

Currency Swap

$180,000

9

Chapel Royal

Montbrook

Signature Stallions

$499,953

39

15

1

2

0

$499,953

Navy Chapel

$108,855

With Distinction

Storm Cat

Hartley/De Renzo

$426,292

42

14

0

0

0

$447,049

Silver Distinction

A.P. Indy

Journeyman Stud

$394,482

28

13

1

1

0

$394,482

Saint D'aroak

Wildcat Heir

Forest Wildcat

Journeyman Stud

$360,196

24

9

1

1

1

$383,800

Vexor

Put It Back

Honour and Glory Bridlewood Farm

$374,609

32

8

2

2

0

$374,609

Luke of York

Storm Cat

Bridlewood Farm

$352,989

10

1

1

2

0

$352,989

Rubiano

Rising Hill

$337,753

13

7

2

2

0

Journeyman Stud

$337,283

28

11

1

1

FRESHMAN

FRESHMAN

FRESHMAN

High Cotton

Saint Anddan

Mr. Sekiguchi

Burning Roma FRESHMAN

Exclusive Quality Elusive Quality

Leading Earner

Leading Yrlg Earnings Sold

Yrlg 2yo Avg Sold

2yo Avg

1

$10,000

$26,222

23

$31,518

17

$14,629

11

$19,836

$42,624

21

$26,200

38

$26,250

$78,388

3

$12,667

24

$18,396

$133,000

24

$26,458

16

$39,531

$96,336

32

$17,556

24

$27,000

Rose and Shine

$326,573

3

$3,400

8

$21,563

$337,753

Queen Drama

$126,705

6

$6,833

0

$337,283

Exclusively Maria

$98,258

14

$8,307

30

$21,550

D'wildcat

Forest Wildcat

Vinery

$309,097

32

8

0

0

0

$309,097

Blue Forty

$55,042

19

$18,142

24

$31,279

City Place

Storm Cat

Hartley/De Renzo

$230,873

18

8

0

0

0

$230,873

Ocala Son

$50,847

6

$9,583

16

$32,469

Silver Deputy

Hartley/De Renzo

$229,363

15

9

1

1

0

$229,363

Aracelis Baby M.

$45,160

7

$6,757

22

$13,732

Pomeroy

Boundary

Vinery

$221,948

18

5

1

1

0

$221,948

Mel Beach

$92,554

13

$28,423

17

$78,235

Black Mambo

Kingmambo

deceased

$197,961

9

5

0

0

0

$197,961

Argentine Tango

$106,250

3

$5,000

3

$10,903

Bring the Heat

In Excess (IRE)

Ward Ranch

$182,256

11

9

0

0

0

$182,256

Firefall

$37,843

West Acre

Forty Niner

Stonehedge South

$177,931

10

7

0

0

0

$177,931

Melpomene

$49,940

1

$2,500

5

$9,900

Johannesburg

Journeyman Stud

$170,295

15

4

0

0

0

$177,143

Trinniberg

$101,300

5

$22,000

7

$44,000

Montbrook

Buckaroo

Ocala Stud

$169,972

12

3

0

0

0

$169,972

Montessa G

$58,735

4

$16,500

12

$35,142

Halo's Image

Halo

deceased

$158,329

9

3

1

1

0

$158,329

Hello Prince

$120,210

4

$5,675

4

$12,250

A. P. Warrior

A.P. Indy

Stonewall Farm Ocala $147,144

22

9

0

0

0

$153,179

Race to the Top

$28,910

6

$13,083

4

$42,500

Bwana Charlie

Indian Charlie

Journeyman Stud

$148,783

14

6

0

0

0

$148,783

Galan's Wings

$38,974

8

$3,500

15

$10,160

Indian Ocean

Stormy Atlantic

Bridlewood Farm

$144,656

14

4

1

1

0

$144,656

Indian Assault

$64,432

8

$5,063

7

$12,286

Proud Accolade

Yes It's True

deceased

$133,256

9

4

0

0

0

$141,540

Gentlemans Code

$40,222

7

$7,886

4

$56,750

Imperialism

Langfuhr

Get Away Farm

$130,470

15

5

0

0

0

$130,470

Imperial Robyn

$31,691

7

$9,929

10

$13,720

FRESHMAN

FRESHMAN

Simon Pure

Teuflesberg

56 THE FLORIDA HORSE • NOVEMBER 2011

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PLAYER’S PAGE

The More the Merrier n some years the outcome is inevitable, in others a debate follows the Breeders’ Cup. The latter is always more interesting. Contentious dialogue is an integral ingredient in any sport, perhaps more so in racing, which is essentially a banquet of gray areas. And nothing bridges the span between the Breeders’ Cup and the unfurling of the ensuing Triple Crown quite like a lively if

by Paul Moran not passionate debate over the post-season vote that determines divisional championships and Horse of theYear.

Regardless of the point at which opinion diverges, the debate, though not always confined to civil discourse (recall the rancorous undercurrent of the Zenyatta-Rachel Alexandra argument two years ago), is healthy in that it keeps racing in the public conversation at a time that would otherwise amount to ebb tide of the year-round season. The outcome of the post-season polls, however, has always been left entirely to insiders and the pool of those involved has for years been in contraction.

The three involved voting bodies are in terms of numbers significantly smaller than they were when the original Eclipse Award determination process was put in place. The National Turf Writers Association, once ro-

I

Other sports, notably Major League Baseball, have adopted a public poll in determining selection of all-star teams. Unlike other sports, racing’s championships, not midseason homage to a hot June hitting streak, are determined by vote rather than directly by competition and the ultimate results are important on many levels, most measurable in currency. bust, has seen its membership contract in lockstep with the decline of print media and has been moved as a result to open membership those involved in broadcast media.

The staff of the Daily Racing Form is significantly smaller nowadays. This is among the functions of a general transformation of media in the digital age. The fluid landscape brought on by the rise of Facebook, Twitter and other social media platforms, smart phones and instant communication will continue to foster change that we have yet to imagine.

The bulk of racing coverage, whether it is generated by tracks, trade associations, the mainstream or a growing force of industry professionals and amateur writing blogs, is now Internet-based and its reach is wider, deeper and more democratic than it has been at any point of history. This may not translate in the immediate grand

58 THE FLORIDA HORSE • NOVEMBER 2011

scheme into increased attendance or betting handle, but is has raised the level and expanded the breadth of dialogue that goes from absurd to sublime.

At this point it may not be a bad idea to embrace those connected to the industry and one another by phone and computer, to draw the public audience into the process of selecting divisional champions and Horse of the Year.

This is not a new idea but one with proponents first ignored decades ago. The right to cast a vote in these polls has long been staunchly guarded by those who enjoy a role seen by many as a right of position not to be trivialized by inclusion of the unsophisticated.

Other sports, notably Major League Baseball, have adopted a public poll in determining selection of all-star teams. Unlike other sports, racing’s championships, not midseason homage to a hot June hitting streak, are determined by vote rather than directly by competition and the ultimate results are important on many levels, most measurable in currency.

Inclusion of the public in this process would be neither simple nor without an element of risk. Determining the structure of what would almost certainly, by necessity, be an electronic poll is important. Assuring the integrity of a ballot with great potential for abuse is not easily accomplished and tabulating what could easily be many hundreds of thousands of votes is a daunting assignment.

A properly designed and executed, transparent and inclusive process is, however, without downside in terms of image and public involvement. It is always better to be invited to the party, in this case one that would provide a platform for debate, expression of opinion and ultimately determination of consensus among the sport’s largest constituency, an exercise in democracy.

There is really no convincing argument to be made against inclusion of a public element in the post-season championship poll. What would be lost? In truth, since many of those who now cast votes may be to some extent influenced by conflicting interests, the result of voting among fans, it could be argued, would be free of secondary agenda.

At the bottom line, racing is not a spectator but a participant sport. Betting involves the fan and beyond a felony conviction there is no barrier to horse ownership.

Public outreach and meaningful inclusion in an important process will almost certainly be welcomed by those who have heretofore been deeply involved but denied voice. More is indeed merrier. ■

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