Suffolk Downs Blog

Jessica Paquette, Racing Analyst

Today is the final day of our 2008 live racing season and, as always, I wish it could go on forever. I am terrible with goodbyes, even temporary ones, and saying goodbye to the people and the ponies never gets any easier.

I went to the barns this morning, armed with carrots, to say goodbye to my friend What a Trippi for the winter. I am convinced he knows how much I like him because, though he isn't know around the barn for exactly being a sweetheart, he is nothing but a gentlemen with me. He tolerates the kisses in exchange for carrots. He is a little, quirky oddball and funny enough, those words have been used to describe me on occasion. We "get" each other.

This meet has been an amazing one and I am sad to see it end. In addition to all of the highlights on the track such as Commentator's brilliant Mass Cap triumph, I am also so proud of what Suffolk has done off the track.

Over the course of the past several days, Suffolk Downs has been forced to act on its anti-slaughter policy. Those in charge have stepped up to the plate and made it known to the industry that our policy enacted earlier in the meet was not just lip service or a gimmick for good press - we mean business.

While it is unfortunate that ignorance and irresponsibility have led some to put our policy to the test, there are many individuals who have accepted responsibility for both themselves and others. With no motive except the good of the horses, people like Lorita Lindemann are a beacon of light on the backside of a racetrack.

Walk through Lorita's barn at Suffolk and you will see it full of horses, most of which are not her own. They are there until they are adopted or placed in a foster home and she works tirelessly to ensure that they are cared for and comfortable. It doesn't matter whether they are a stakes winner or a lifetime maiden; they all deserve to be treated with respect and care. The world would be a better place with more people like Lorita in it.

As always, any comments or questions are welcome at jpaquette@suffolkdowns.com. Thank you to everyone for a fantastic meet and I will be counting the days until the first Saturday in May!

Jessica Paquette, Racing Analyst

Yesterday, all eyes were on the world’s greatest racehorses in the Breeders’ Cup. Today, the focus shifted in a different direction. Canter New England’s third annual Suffolk Showcase was held today and though the skies were gray at first, the weather quickly turned beautiful.

These horses may not be world beaters and, due to age or wear and tear, they may not be as productive on the racetrack as they once were but their connections are dedicated to ensuring a happy ending for them. Though they may not have been destined for greatness on the racetrack, they could be wonderful as eventers, lesson ponies or just a best friend to a little girl.

The turnout was fantastic and there were many enthusiastic people looking for their next eventing champion or simply a pleasure horse. One by one, many familiar faces were brought out and paraded to potential new owners. Christmas Away, a fan favorite, looked wonderful and more than ready for a new career.

One of the best parts of today was seeing just how attached many of the trainers are to their horses and how proud they are to bring them out and show them off. Phebe Young tacked up her sweet, little mare Laced Up and rode her down, much to the appreciation of the crowd. This mare has had quite a career at Suffolk Downs, breaking her maiden in 2002 (!!) and going on to win fourteen races. At nine years old, she’s done being a racehorse and ready to make a little girl very happy. Phebe has had this horse for seven years and obviously wants the best for her friend.

One of the misconceptions about ex-racehorses is that they can be temperamental and hard to handle. Bobby Raymond proudly showed off a picture of The Mount, a handsome son of Capote, with a delighted six-year-old girl on his back. I can personally say that of all the horses I showed as a little girl, the one I had the most fun with and learned the most from was an ex-racer nicknamed Jag. He was so patient, kind and willing and I owe a lot of my ability in the saddle to him.

No trip to the backside is safe without a visit with What a Trippi. I took a picture of him with my cell phone and sent a text-message to my mother with a note “For Christmas, I want a pony.” Some things don’t change.

I was so pleased with the turnout today, not only of potential buyers but with Canter volunteers. They don’t care whether a horse is a stakes winner or a twenty plus start maiden. They just want what’s best for each horse.

Quite a few horses found homes today. Fan-favorite Ennscho is on his way to be a trail horse and live happily ever after.

I love happy endings.

As always, questions or comments are welcome at jpaquette@suffolkdowns.com. Also, be sure to check out http://www.canterusa.org/newengland/ for more information.

Jessica Paquette, Racing Analyst

When I was younger and long before anyone was remotely interested in my opinion, I would always smuggle past performances in to class with me, sit in the back row and write lengthy analysis about the big races under the guise of note taking. This is why I can tell who won the 1997 Calder Derby (Blazing Sword, for the record) and struggle through pesky things like Algebra.

Anyhow, here are race-by-race ramblings. Enjoy.

FILLY & MARE SPRINT

Indian Blessing is the obvious one to beat here. She has been beautifully campaigned and watching her mature this year has been a treat. She has had a full campaign this year and with a win here could be a serious contender for her second Eclipse Award. Zaftig has the distinction of being one of only two fillies to hand Indian Blessing a defeat and though this filly has been sidelined since June, there is no denying her obvious talent. This is an ambitious comeback spot for this filly but that bullet work at Santa Anita last week is an encouraging sign. Ventura comes out of a game effort against the boys on the grass at Woodbine. Bobby Frankel has all the tools to have a big two days and one of his biggest guns may be this honest, and possibly overlooked, filly. She has won at this distance over a synthetic track before and her two workouts at Santa Anita both look promising. Besides, the Breeders' Cup just isn't complete for me without seeing those Juddmonte silks in the winner's circle at least once.

JUVENILE FILLY TURF

Now I make no attempt at hiding my absolute obsession with Graeme Hall, but when he retired to stud I was not entirely sure how well he was going to do. He wound up being a pleasant surprise, siring horses that have turned out to be incredibly versatile including Guadalcanal, a winner at a mile and a half on the grass. That brings me to Emmy Darling . She is going to be a big price, and rightfully so as she has regressed off the promise she showed over the summer. No excuses in the Del Mar Debutante. I do think the switch to grass is an interesting one and what better day that Breeders' Cup to look for a total bomb? Freedom Rings is another filly in this race that interests me. Though she is still a maiden, she showed a good deal of professionalism in the G3 at Belmont and I just have a world of respect for trainer David Donk, especially with turfers. Heart Shaped is a half sister to G1 winning juvenile, A P Valentine and is part of the strong group representing trainer Aidan O'Brien. This filly has all the tools and the pedigree to be a big success.

JUVENILE FILLIES

Persistently has left a positive impression in all four of her starts and she was compromised by a colorful trip behind the sensational Sky Diva in the Frizette. She should get the desired pace scenario here but traffic is always a concern with her running style in a field this size. Stardom Bound has home-track advantage here and the buzz around this filly has been about as big as she is. She is another deep closer so the same apprehension with the Phipps filly applies but she has been nothing but dominating on the West Coast. Pursuit of Glory has the pedigree for Breeders' Cup success. Her granddam is the incomparable Serena's Song, who's duel with Flanders in the 1994 Juvenile Fillies was one for the record books.

FILLY AND MARE TURF

Wait a While is just so hard not to like. This mare has been well-campaigned throughout her career and with her tactical speed, she should get the ideal trip. It also doesn't hurt that she is a perfect three for three on the Santa Anita turf. Halfway to Heaven seems to be the strongest of a very tough group of European invaders in this spot. She is a three-time Group 1 winner this season and two of her three losses this year (the third being to superstar Zarkava) did come over yielding courses. Folk Opera is three-for-three at this distance and while I have some questions about several fillies wanting to go this far (including possible favorite Forever Together ) there are no questions that this filly will run all day. Her win at Woodbine was sharp and figures to set her up well for a big effort.

LADIES' CLASSIC

Zenyatta has been nothing short of sensational in all eight starts and this is her race to lose. She is the star of the show and she knows it, shown by her notorious attitude both in the paddock and on track. Regardless of her antics, she turns it on effortlessly in a race and she proved in the spring she can win out of California. I know that doesn't have much bearing on this race but it adds to her storied resume. Ginger Punch is the reigning champion and has shown this year not only a champion's talent, but a champion's heart. She hates to lose and though Zenyatta is all sorts of brilliant, this mare will give everything she has to deny her the championship. Music Note is the only three-year-old filly in the race. She defeated a hopelessly overmatched field in the Gazelle last out but this filly is obviously special and will represent the sophomores well. It is worth nothing that her stablemate Cocoa Beach has been generating a ton of buzz after that October 18 bullet and her record (10 starts, 8-1-1) is hardly one to overlook.

MARATHON

Sixties Icon looms very tough in this spot as he is a true distance horse. 1 1/2 miles is his ideal distance and though this is his first start on a surface other than turf, he has given no indication he shouldn't adapt. He is apparently done most of his training over Polytrack and handled it well. Muhannak is another European invader, this one with back to back wins over the Polytrack overseas. His current form is strong and he is a proven commodity at this distance as well. Cedar Mountain has been on the board in all four US tries on the turf, though he did win over the polytrack in Great Britain. He has been on the shelf since July but has run well off a layoff in the past.

Of course, there is a giant void in this race without Evening Attire, even though the odds of him going west were slim. What a cool horse.

TURF SPRINT

Remember Diabolical ? He's been a stakes horse in the US since he was a juvenile and since being purchased by Godolphin has gone on to reestablish himself as a formidable opponent on the turf as well. I think he's an interesting horse in this spot and his last race in Europe was his best yet. Fleeting Spirit is one of two fillies taking on the boys in this spot but she, though lightly raced, has flashed outright brilliance in several of her victories. She held her own against some very tough European competition and may fly under the radar here. Mr. Nightlinger is going to have some company out front but it is hard to discount his five-race win streak and just how good he has been since switching to the grass.

MILE

Goldikova is the leading lady of this race, with a pair of Group 1 wins under her belt against some of the best of Europe. She also ran into superstar Zarkava earlier in the year with a respectable second and third. The other mare in this race may pose a big threat as well. Precious Kitten is the accomplished half sister to the remarkable Kitten's Joy. Her front-running effort at Keeneland was decent but she did come up slightly short. It was her first start back off a layoff so she gets the benefit of the doubt that she will come in sharper today. Whatsthescript has flourished since switching barns and his last three efforts make him a real contender. He is proven over this particular turf course and that alone could work in his favor today and he does seem to be training forwardly and getting good at the right time.

DIRT MILE

The Dirt Mile, won by Corinthian in its inaugural running last year, has attracted a deep group of horses. This field of twelve, headlined by synthetic specialist Well Armed , looks to be no means be the walkover it was last year. While Well Armed has been an absolute win machine this year and appears to be as consistent and game as you could ask for (loved how hard he fought in the Pacific Classic), there are several options in this spot that may offer a better price. Lewis Michael has been the underachieving older brother of champion and Breeders' Cup juvenile winner Dreaming of Anna and is campaigned by the same connections. (Those connections, as a side note, also campaigned one of my all-time favorite fillies, Silver Maiden, and her halter plate has been proudly attached to my key-ring since I got my license). This horse has struggled to really find his niche and a mile on a synthetic track seems perfect for him. His win at Del Mar may have been a breakthrough race for him and he could be sitting on a career best race. Though I am admittedly not much of a numbers girl, his Beyer numbers are more than competitive with this field. Another interesting horse in this field is Albertus Maximus. This colt has shown notable improvement in each start since joining the Vladimir Cerin stable and could capitalize on a possible pace collapse.

JUVENILE

Square Eddie looked very strong at Keeneland in his US debut and figures to continue to improve off of that effort as he apparently was no where near cranked to 100% for it. In the 2004 Juvenile, one of the two tickets I cashed that day was with Wilko, also owned by J. Paul Reddam. Midshipman has been highly regarded since his maiden win and ran a credible race in the Norfolk. He showed last out this distance is within his grasp and the distance is a big question mark for several horses in this race. It is also worth keeping in mind that this is his home track and he has been training very well leading up to this race. Bushranger is one of the more intriguing horses in this race and has back to back Group 1 wins to his credit. He is obviously very talented and the questions with him will be the distance and the surface.

JUVENILE TURF

Bittel Road has a fantastic turn of foot and has shown great acceleration in his past two races. A son of the versatile sire Stormy Atlantic, he could be one of Pletcher's biggest shots to take home a trophy. Westphalia is a logical threat after his Group 2 win last out. The O'Brien barn is loaded as usual this year and this colt looks very promising. Skipadate has played the bridesmaid in his last two, just narrowly losing to Bittel Road and the interesting Grand Adventure . I actually really like the Skip Away babies on the grass and though I am not wild about his October 19 workout, he has shown enough ability and heart to make him an upset candidate.

SPRINT

I have been touting First Defence enthusiastically since I opened my e-mail to see that eye-popping workout appear in my stablemail. I've thought really highly of this colt throughout his career and was also a big fan of his dam, Honest Lady, second in this race in 2000. His last race was simply too atrocious to be true and though he will need his best effort for this one, he may be primed for it. In Summation is a proven force over synthetic surfaces and his last three efforts have all been solid. His biggest strength in this spot is his ability to come from off the pace as it looks like Black Seventeen, Fabulous Strike, Fatal Bullet and possibly others may slug it out on the front end. There is no arguing that Midnight Lute is brilliantly fast. His win in the Sprint last year was one of the more visually impressive of the day. He has had only two starts since then, neither of them showing quite the imposing presence he possessed in 2007. However, his workouts have been sensational leading up to this race and he is the reigning champion.

TURF

I'll come out and say it, I just adore Better Talk Now . What a fabulous old warhorse. I just think it is incredible that here it is, 2008, and I'm writing about the same horse that won in 2004.He and Red Rocks bailed me out on Breeders' Cup day in 2006 and he made my day in 2004. He may not be quite the horse he was, but he is capable of tapping into that magic one more time. Red Rocks looked very strong defeating Better Talk Now and the great Curlin in July. He's been on the shelf since but has been working steadily and has fired very well off a layoff before. Fitness isn't the question and he is an big contender in his third Breeders' Cup appearance. Soldier of Fortune has been keeping company with Europe's best and should be a major player in this race. The big question mark with the European shippers is how they handle the trip and the West Coast temperature.

CLASSIC

The defection of Big Brown may have dampened the Classic for some, but in my mind the big star was always Curlin. He has had his share of critics, but to quote the Patriot's star, Randy Moss, "...all you haters, keep hatin'!" This magnificent horse has been an absolute treat to watch for the past two seasons. He has matured, both physically and professionally, into one of the greatest stars of this generation. I remember working as a teller at Rockingham Park and looking up just as he was turning for home in his maiden win and being blown away. He has danced every dance and as a racing fan, it has been a pleasure to sit back and enjoy the ride. Casino Drive is the biggest question mark of the day. Is he a freak? Or, is he another nice horse in way over his head? One thing is clear and that is his prep race on October 12 was visually impressive. He was never asked and never even came close to extending himself. He'll have to extend himself against this group and we'll see what he's really made of. Now if there was ever a horse bred for Breeders' Cup success, that would be Champs Elysees. His dam, Hasili, has produced Breeders' Cup Filly and Mare Turf champions Banks Hill and Intercontinental, along with G1 winners Dansili, Heat Haze and Cacique. He is an accomplished grass horse but also has had one of his best efforts in this country over the synthetic track at Santa Anita in March. Nice workout on October 20, as well.

To anyone that read this far, thank you! As always, questions and comments are more than welcome at jpaquette@suffolkdowns.com Make sure to check out Pat Lamberty's analysis below.

Pat Lamberty

Magnificence (20/1) won both of her races as a three-year-old in 2007 very impressively. She looks to be rounding back into form for this race, although she could be better on conventional dirt compared with synthetic surfaces. Nonetheless, she should get a nice pace setup as this race is loaded with speed and she does her best running from a tactical position. Zaftig (8/1) looks to be in an ambitious spot now making her first start since winning the Acorn over Indian Blessing on Belmont Stakes Day in June. She has never run over a synthetic surface, but worked well at Santa Anita last week and Jimmy Jerkens would not bring her all the way to California unless he thought she was coming up to the race in tremendous form. Indian Blessing (2/1) has been kept on the East Coast for the majority of her 2008 campaign, so one must question if Baffert thinks she is more suited for conventional dirt. She will get pressured on the lead in the early stages of this race and is the horse to beat, but a tough one to support in the win spot at what is expected to be a short price.

FM Juvenile Turf

Heart Shape (15/1) will have to overcome a very difficult outside post, but she is trained by Europe’s most successful trainer Aidan O’ Brien, a master at getting young horses to develop early. This Storm Cat filly is making her first start beyond six-furlongs, but she has looked like a horse that will benefit from a longer trip. Live at a big price. Consequence (8/1) carries the famed Phipps colors for trainer Shug McGaughey. This filly was beaten as the favorite in her last race, but she had a wide trip and might have been the best horse in the race. Don’t think we have seen her best and the barn is known for getting horses to improve with each start. Saucy Evening (9/2) broke her maiden on the turf and she has shown the ability to quicken nicely in her races. The distance does not look to be an issue and she now adds blinkers for Graham Motion, a respected turf conditioner.

Juvenile Fillies

Stardom Bound (2/1) has been a true professional in all four of her career races, displaying the ability to rate off the pace before coming with a solid run through the stretch. Her running style and affinity for the racing surface at Santa Anita makes her the horse to beat in a field where the other leading contenders still look questionable. Sky Diva (7/2) has won both of her career races in untested fashion and her victory in the Frizette was done with little urging. Being by Sky Mesa from an Unbridled mare, she could very well have more depth and looks a solid contender for the win. Persistently (15/1) was forced to alter course multiple times in her prep race and that certainly compromised her chances. She seems like a horse that will appreciate the added distance and trainer Shug McGaughey is the most successful trainer of fillies in the history of the Breeders’ Cup.

FM Turf

Halfway to Heaven (4/1) has won three Group I races in Europe this season, including a victory in the Nassau Stakes at Goodwood in England going this distance of 1 ¼ miles. This three-year-old filly is a classic winner overseas and she gave a scare to Zarkava in May when finishing just 3 ½ lengths behind one of the best horses seen ever in Europe. Folk Opera (10/1) could get an uncontested lead in this race and she was an impressive winner of the prestigious EP Taylor three weeks ago at Woodbine. This filly has also faced the best in the world and she is confirmed at this distance. Wait A While (3/1) is undefeated from three races over the Santa Anita turf course, but she has not faced company this tough in those races.

Distaff

Zenyatta (3/5) is undefeated from nine races in her career and she gets the advantage of racing in her base of Southern California. She continues to train well and is proven over the ProRide surface at Santa Anita. She looks to be more talented than the challengers and will be tough to beat as the shortest horse on the Friday Breeders’ Cup program. Music Note (4/1) is one of the leading three-year-old fillies in what is a very deep division this season. Her only loss from five starts this year came going 1 ¼ miles in Alabama, which may be a touch beyond her ideal distance. Cocoa Beach (8/1) has been impressive winning both of her races since coming to North America from Dubai. She defeated Ginger Punch in her most recent start looks to be coming into this race in improving form.

Jessica Paquette, Racing Analyst

Today was the second of our two DRF/NTRA National Handicapping Championship qualifying tournaments. These contests are always a lot of fun, not only for the participants but for me as well. I really look forward to them because they give me a chance to essentially hang out and talk horses with a group of knowledgeable handicappers. There are usually quite a few familiar faces as the same people come back time after time, all vying for the top spots and a trip to Vegas.

The tournament started off with a bang when Stormy's Smile pulled a huge upset in New York at 75-1. Only four people were smiling after that race and after that, the contest was really for 5th-10th place and of course, bragging rights. Mark Lambley was one of the top four and he remained on top, winning the qualifying spot with a bankroll of $254.40.

The big longshot may have deflated a few participants but for the most part, the mood remained upbeat throughout the day. Eric Torres, a regular that always seems to have a good time, enjoyed his best placing today and wound up fifth. He seemed genuinely excited about that placing and his enthusiasm was contagious.

These tournaments are a lot of fun for everyone, both experienced handicappers and those just starting out. As the 75-1 bomb proved, both the best and worst part about horse racing is the sheer unpredictability of it.

The local racing today certainly wasn't lacking, either. You want to see a memorable racehorse? Watch a replay of any of Little Tara's many wins. She took on the boys today and this little mare is just such a joy to watch. She is pocket-sized for one thing and when she runs, she carries her tail so high she is impossible to miss. Though she is small in stature, her heart is as big as they come.

Jockey Cliff Dooley had quite a day as well. Not only did he ride a Little Tara to a big victory, his friend Bankin Cash gave everything he had to hold off the fabulous old gelding Sing Me Back Home. Those two horses, joined in the trifecta by a back-in-form That's the Fact Jack, are a wonderful group of honest, blue-collar runners. Racing needs more of them.

As always, comments or questions are more than welcome at jpaquette@suffolkdowns.com

Jessica Paquette, Racing Analyst

"What a cool horse. He always comes through for me."

That was Cliff Dooley after he rode Bankin Cash to victory in Tuesday's sixth race. Bankin Cash may not be a champion or a world-beater, but he is an honest, blue-collar type of racehorse and made my day to see a jockey so fond (and appreciative) of his mount.

We have an interesting jockey colony at Suffolk Downs. Before I came here, I viewed jockeys from a statistical standpoint only. I admired their athletic achievements, praised or criticized certain rides and respected the demanding nature of their sport. But, that was it.

In the past three years, I've really gotten to know our local jockeys as people and that has added a whole new dimension to the sport for me. As the meet is starting to wind to a close, the question most frequently asked throughout the day is "Where do you go next?" I stay locally, but the majority of the horsemen and jockeys scatter throughout the country. I used to only keep tabs on where my favorite horses wound up when the meet ended, but now I scan entries and results to keep an eye on the trainers and jockeys as well.

The Suffolk jockey colony also has a fascinating mix of both younger jockeys and seasoned veterans. We've gotten to see some very promising young riders get their feet wet here at Suffolk in the past few years and I think they really benefit from being able to learn from the likes of Winston Thompson, David Amiss and Tammi Piermarini.

Tammi was forced to miss some time this year due to an injury, but she was back in the saddle as quickly as possible. I remember speaking to her several days after the injury over the summer and she was already raring to get back on the track. She is one of the fiercest competitors around and always impossible to count out, as evidenced by the 40-1 score aboard Act Won on Monday.

One young rider at Suffolk I am continually impressed with is Deudis Pena-Mora. He rides one of my favorite local stars, Nijinsky Bullet, and when he speaks about her, his entire face lights up. Speaking of the lovely Mrs. Bullet, she's back in action this Saturday and I am very excited.

I have gotten some questions about whether or not we will be adding a "comments" feature to this blog. Some fun changes are in the works, but for now feel free to e-mail me at jpaquette@suffolkdowns.com with any questions or comments.

This year's Prix de l'Arc (due off at 10.40 am Eastern and shown live here at Suffolk Downs when simulcast wagering will be available) is an outstanding clash of both the generations and the sexes.

Favorite will be the only filly in the 17 strong line-up, the Aga Khan's brilliant 3-y-o ZARKAVA. Last month she extended her unbeaten career record to six races (including four Grade 1 events) when taking the Prix Vermeille (Gr1) over this exact course and distance.

She is, without doubt, one of the very best fillies we have seen in Europe for many years but that doesn't make her the predicted short priced "good thing" many will have you believe. She has never raced against the boys before, the field she beat in the Vermeille was not a stellar one and, most worryingly, she was very slow to jump from the gates last time.

Like so many top class horses she knows she is good and, by all accounts from France, ZARKAVA is now being something of a madam at home on the gallops - either refusing to jump off in her work or working in a lackluster fashion.

In the Vermeille she got away with blowing the beginning, sweeping wide into the straight and deep closing in the final quarter mile. Against this Arc opposite she cannot afford that luxury. If she wins racing worldwide will be heralding one of the greats but she is not a workingman's price at the betting windows.

I was lucky enough to call home DUKE OF MARMALADE in the International Stakes (Gr1) at Newmarket in August - his fifth straight Grade 1 win this year - and as officially the top rated turf horse currently racing worldwide he must have every chance. However it has already been a tremendous training effort by Aidan O'Brien to keep this horse winning in the top grade all season and this may be a race too far. He certainly was not as devastating when winning at Newmarket as he had been earlier in his campaign.

Many European observers believe that Aidan O'Brien's best chance (he has four runners in all) comes in the shape of last year's fifth SOLDIER OF FORTUNE who appears to have been specifically trained for this race. Winner of the Coronation Cup (Gr1) at Epsom on his comeback in June, his only subsequent start came when runner-up behind his old adversary YOUMZAIN (last year's Arc runner-up and runner-up in the Coronation Cup) in the Grand Prix de Saint-Cloud (Gr1). He certainly must be on everyone's short list.

Other older horses to consider include Prix Foy (Gr2) winner ZAMBEZI SUN and the horse he narrowly beat in that Longchamp race SCHIAPARELLI. The latter is the only Godolphin runner in the race and is therefore the mount of Frankie Dettori.

Only four of the 17 runners are 3 year-olds but I am still looking to the classic generation to lift this year's prize. I have been very taken by the Prix du Jockey-Club (Gr1 - the French Derby) and Prix Neil (Gr2) winner VISION D'ETAT all year and although he never wins his races by big margins (it was just a nose last time) he is a real street fighter.

Like ZARKAVA he is likely to come from off the pace but, unlike his female rival, he has the physical presence to get himself out of trouble. The fact he is trained by a little know conditioner (even in Europe) Eric Libaud means he is a remarkably big price for an unbeaten, Derby winning, six from six career horse.

Quite simply this year's Arc is a high class and intriguing European Fall Championship. The winner, who ever he is she may be, will quite rightly be heralded as a star.

Picks: 1st VISION D'ETAT 2nd SOLDIER OF FORTUNE 3rd ZARKAVA

Yesterday, I got to spend the day with Angel Cordero, Jr., Pat Day and Laffit Pincay, Jr. They were in town to kick off the Breeders' Cup Legends Tour and my job was to essentially hang out with three of racing's biggest stars all day. My job is rough, isn't it?

It was truly an honor to spend the day with these men and listen to them reminisce about the times they spend riding some of the best horses in history. All three have such different personalities but it is obvious there is a deep mutual respect and camaraderie amongst them.

I brought them down to the jock's room and they were greeted with a warm reception. There is a bond among jockeys, regardless of the level at which they compete. No one understands the daily routines and struggles of a jockey better than these three men.

I never imagined that I would be sitting in the Turf Club having lunch with three of the greatest jockeys of all time. As I sat there, talking with Laffit about weight-lifting, nutrition and our mutual habit of putting Splenda on everything, I was reminded yet again how fortunate I am to be a part of the greatest sport in the world.

What a day.

Commentator was a true star.

Standing by the rail as they were loading into the gate before the big race, I was blown away by the sea of people and the excitement in the air.

Everyone was there to see a star, and they certainly saw one when Commentator rolled home looking like the two-time Grade 1 winner that he is.

One of the highlights of the day for me came when Palmer's Approach, bred by Nick Zito's wife Kim, broke his maiden in a big way. Kim's enthusiasm was infectious. It made my day to see a woman that is around the best horses in the world on a daily basis as excited by a maiden winner as she would be by a Classic winner. Her love of the horse and the sport is obvious from miles away.

The big race was everything a big race should be. He romped and, back in the winner's circle, he looked like he could do it again.

Walking back to the press box, I stopped to chat with one of my favorite regulars.

He summed it up better than I can.

"See? There's life here at Suffolk Downs. This track has so much going for it."

There is no better cure for the common cold than visiting some high quality horses first thing in the morning.

As my luck would have it, I have an ill-timed cold and have felt less than 100% the past couple of days. The mix of the crisp almost-autumn air and the increasing excitement wound up being the best possible medicine this morning.

Two of the big horses for the Mass Cap, Dr. Pleasure and Cuba, are already on the grounds and I went to pay them a visit.

Dr. Pleasure, accompanied by the always-friendly Donna Ward, was as sharp as could be this morning. He stuck his head out and once he realized no one had anything he wanted, he was content to go back into his stall and relax. I was a big fan of his mother, Beautiful Pleasure, so it's a treat for me to see him here for the second year in a row.

Michelle was also at the barn to get some photos of the big horses and eventually we managed to coax Dr. Pleasure out with peppermints. He's a very clever horse and has personality for days.

Cuba, several stalls down the shed row, perked up immediately when he noticed Michelle's camera. He was ready for his big close up and hammed it up for us.

Commentator will be arriving later today. I'm sure I'll have more to report then.

Jessica Paquette

The field is set for this weekend's Mass Cap and though it may not be a massive field, there is no lack of star quality.

Commentator is a brilliant racehorse and, unlike so many of high profile horses of the past few years, he has been a star for years. At seven years old, he is as good, if not better, than he has ever been.

His triumph over Saint Liam in the 2005 Whitney was one of the most stirring performances of the year. He showed that day that there was more to him than just blistering speed - he had heart, too. There was no heart-pounding stretch battle in this year's installment of the Whitney. Commentator was never tested and put on a dazzling front-running show for the fans at the Spa that day.

Hats off to Tracy Farmer and Nick Zito for the patience and sportsmanship they have shown with this horse. As a racing fan, it is a rare pleasure to get to see the same horses competing at the highest level year after year.

I don't believe it is simply because he is a gelding that he has remained in training. Tracy Farmer and Nick Zito campaigned another high-profile horse that did have value at stud, Albert the Great, past his three-year-old season.

One of my fondest memories in racing goes back to the Breeders' Cup Classic in 2001. I was at Belmont Park with a group of my girlfriends and we thought that it would be fun to make signs for our favorite horses.

My sign? "Albert (is still) the Great".

And so is Commentator.

Jessica Paquette

One of the most amazing parts about Mass Cap week is all of the hard work that goes on behind the scenes in preparation for our biggest day.

For the past week, everyone at the racetrack has been working around the clock to get everything just right for the big day. Walking across the catwalk to the press box several mornings ago, I was blown away by the flurry of activity going on below me. It was extremely early in the morning and all the track maintenance guys looked as if they had already been busy for hours. Flowers were being planted, fresh coats of paint applied and all of the odds and ends were being perfected.

The racing office also have been working hard to get the best possible fields assembled for the day. Commentator is the obvious star of the show, with his illustrious record and dazzling speed but the entire card looks to be a remarkable one. I got to bring out my inner Vanna White for the post position luncheon and was pleased to see that though Commentator looks tough, there may be a David in the field ready to take on Goliath.

The highlight of the undercard for me is Nijinsky Bullet in the Drumtop Stakes. She is our local heroine and I believe she will represent the local horses well against some very tough stock coming in. This is her racetrack and I think she knows it.

Horses start arriving tomorrow. I will be making a trek to visit and will report back.

It is an exciting time to be a racing fan in New England.

This year, New England racing fans have gotten to see horses ship into Suffolk Downs from some of the premier racing outfits in the country. High profile trainers like Nick Zito and Christophe Clement have been sending horses to race not only in our big events but in our maiden races and claiming races as well.

On Saturday, racing fans were treated to a horse with an impressive pedigree and an even more impressive $9.7 million dollar price tag. Jalil, an impeccably bred son of Storm Cat, made his United States debut in Saturday's $50,000 for Godolphin Stables.

When he walked into the paddock, all eyes were on him. I was standing in the middle of the paddock and looked around for a moment and was blown away but how many people were pressed against the glass looking into the paddock from inside. Everyone wanted to see what a nearly ten-million dollar horse looked like and on looks, he did not disappoint.

Though Jalil did not deliver in the race, his United States debut was hardly a flop. He boasts an impressive grass pedigree and we may see him down the line in some major races on both the lawn or synthetic track.

With all the buzz surrounding Jalil, three-time Canadian champion Judith's Wild Rush flew under the radar. I have followed this fantastic horse since he was a juvenile so I was very excited to see him come race at my home track. After the race, jockey Orlando Bocachica described him as "a pro" and he certainly is.

This seven-year-old has made fifty three starts and with his determined win in the Waquoit Stakes yesterday is now racing's newest millionaire. Hats off to a game, blue-collar competitor that to me is the epitome of what a racehorse should be.

Another horse that deserves some recognition is Riversrunrylee. This gelding was the very definition of heart yesterday and is one horse that never seems to get the credit he deserves. After setting the pace yesterday, he dug in and battled back against the big gray and though he couldn't pull the upset, he really impressed me with how hard he tries.

The highlight of the day for me, however, came in the sixth race. Nijinsky Bullet, New England's reigning champion mare, took on the boys and established herself as the best horse on the grounds.

She is the perfect example of what amazing things time and patience can do for a horse. I remember her as a three-year-old here in 2006 and though she was a nice, talented filly she was just that - nice. Nice is not a word to describe her anymore. Spectacular, brilliant, amazing seem better fitting now.

I went to the barn this morning with carrots in tow to congratulate her on a job well done. Her efforts yesterday seem to have taken little out of her- she was bright eyed, energetic and determined to get every last carrot I had. When I was younger and would have certain favorite racehorses, for the most part they were a world away. I feel so blessed that now when I have favorites, they are just a five-minute walk away and I can go give them kisses and carrots whenever I please.

The Mass Cap is now just a few weeks away. We got a preview as to just how amazing that day is going to be yesterday.

Jessica Paquette

There is a certain fairy-tale element to the racetrack. Even after being around racing for years now, I still view it at times with the eyes of a child. I fall hopelessly in love with these big creatures and the whole racing world still holds magic to me. There are heroes and villains and each day at the track a whole new story unfolds.

This Sunday was one of our "Family Fun Days" at the track and I was thrilled to see so many children around. There was one little girl in particular who was standing by the paddock fence and I recognized the look in her eyes - she was totally in awe of the horses and the whole sport. It was her first day at the track and I'm guessing it will not be her last.

I always joke that I got hooked on racing when I was a kid because one day my mom took me to the track and after that I refused to leave. I remember being probably no more than five years old at Rockingham Park and falling in love with horses and this sport. That led to riding lessons and horse shows, but I was always led back to the racetrack.

I remember sitting in front of my television watching Silver Charm win the Kentucky Derby in 1997 and wanting so badly to be a part of that magical, exciting world. Every morning as I pull into the Suffolk parking lot I am reminded that this all became possible because of the vision of Kids to the Cup founder, Trudy McCaffery, a woman who believed that youth is the future of this sport. I learned a lot from Trudy over the years, and would love to continue her mission to encourage young people in this sport.

Jessica Paquette

When I was younger, my best friend and I would find our way onto the backside of Belmont Park and visit our favorite horses. It was then that I fell in love with the backside- it is a world within itself and, especially in the mornings, abuzz with activity.

I went to the Suffolk barns this morning with a mission. Several days ago, while sitting in the press box watching morning workouts, I saw a little chestnut zoom on by and I recognized her immediately as Awesome Chic. It isn't every day that you look out the window and see a graded stakes filly galloping past. Needless to say, I was very excited to pay her a visit. I must admit that my shoe choice was a poor one today. Five-inch red stilettos have no place in a barn and got several laughs as I teetered by.

She looks fantastic. When I got to her stall, she was comfortably lying down and just could not be bothered to stand up and say hello. She knows just how special she is. I also was curious about what is next for her. She will be spending most of the summer here at Suffolk and will be prepping for the big filly stakes at Saratoga.

Though she didn't fare as well as we all had hoped in the Kentucky Oaks, I was told that she simply did not handle the track that day. Churchill Downs is notorious for being a love it or hate it sort of racetrack and apparently she fell in the latter category. What really matters is that she came home sound and will be ready to tackle the big girls again at the Spa.

A trip to the backside isn't complete without a visit with my buddy What a Trippi. I am shamelessly in love with this gelding and was thrilled to get to hang out with him for a little while. Though he isn't what one would call a "people person", he was on his best behavior today and I have decided that he likes me as much as I like him. He is making his seasonal debut on Monday in the ultra-competitive $50,000 Rudy Baez Stakes and there will be no one cheering louder.

Jessica Paquette

Let's start by making something clear - I am not a morning person. That being said, it takes something big to get me out of bed at the crack of dawn. It takes something even bigger to get me happily out of bed that early.

I find no better way to start my day than getting to the track around 7am and sitting up in the press box, coffee in hand, watching morning workouts. To me, that is my favorite part of the racetrack. I've had the pleasure of watching morning workouts at Santa Anita, Gulfstream, Calder, Belmont and Saratoga but my favorite track to watch them at is Suffolk Downs.

There is a quiet serenity to the morning workouts. And while they do not have the race day excitement, there is a different sort of intensity to them. You see the young horses, bouncing all around the track, feeling good and just taking in all of the new sights and sounds. You also see the old pros, going about their morning business. Watching a seasoned horse breeze in the morning is amazing. There is no race day scenario pushing them, no horse on their outside fueling that competitive fire. The competition is with themselves and you can really see it- their ears are pinned and they are putting forth 100% effort because they simply enjoy running.

As an athlete myself, I find another sort of appreciation for morning workouts. The day of the race is of course when all the hard work pays off. A race, to me, isn't always won on that day. Sometimes it is won through the early mornings and the rigorous training leading up to that point.

Jessica Paquette

There are small things about the racetrack that make me really happy. Little things that go unnoticed to the casual observer but give me those "I can't believe I get paid to be here" moments.

I was sitting by the paddock, watching the horses come in for an early race on the card when I looked over to see a groom having a full-blown conversation with his horse. He was clearly giving his charge a pep talk and I overheard things along the lines of "You can do it today!" I smiled to myself at the small gesture that spoke volumes. After the race, the horse didn't run very well but on the walk back, I saw that same groom affectionately patting his neck. It isn't always about winning.

The horses are the stars of the show here. Flirt for Fame, a Massachusetts-bred, rolled home impressively today against a tough field of fillies and mares. She looked amazing in the post parade and seems to have really grown into herself. Speaking of Mass-breds, I saw New England superstar Ask Queenie work out the other morning and can't wait to see these two ladies meet up again soon.

Jessica Paquette

After a long winter, Opening Day is finally here! It is so exciting to see so many familiar faces and quite a few new ones, as well.

Despite the less than ideal weather, the entire racetrack was abuzz with excitement by the time the first post drew near. Finally, the 2008 racing season was about to begin!

There were several horses on the Suffolk card I was excited to see, some I had followed for a while and some were new faces in town.

The first horse to catch my eye on the day was a first-time starter named Boken Lady. This filly stumbled at the start and took a few moments to really get her legs under her again. Then, showing class and professionalism one would not always expect from a first-time starter, she made a big run to finish second. This is a filly that I intend to keep an eye on throughout the meet and am interested in how she develops.

The next horse on the day was Watchtower. This horse has arguably the best pedigree on the grounds, being by the brilliant Dubai Millennium out of a Group I winning mare. I am, admittedly, a pedigree junkie and have logged an alarming amount of hours researching lineage. Anyhow, Watchtower showed his class yet again and rolled home much the best.

The best thing about racing at Suffolk Downs is that it allows someone like me, a racing fan, to get attached to these horses and follow them. The big Grade I kind of horses are great but all too often are retired much too soon. How many times have we seen a talented three-year old retired that would have been even better at four?

Electric Mountain, in the ninth race, showed exactly why sometimes, good things happen when a horse gets some time to mature. Electric Mountain, a handsome son of Mt. Livermore bred by Mr. & Mrs. Roy Jackson of Barbaro fame, showed flashes of potential throughout the meet last year. Something, however, just wasn't "clicking" with the colt. His four-year old season at Suffolk Downs started with a bang on Saturday. Looking physically even better than the year before, Electric Mountain ran like a complete professional and has stamped himself as a force to be reckoned with this summer.

There are plenty of things to be excited about this year at Suffolk Downs. With purse increases and an expanded stakes program, the racing looks to get even better as the meet goes on.

We have it pretty good here in Boston right now. We have the Celtics to be excited about, the Red Sox to be excited about and, most importantly, we have Suffolk Downs to be excited about.

November 8, 2007

September 25, 2007

September 25, 2007

Saturday, September 22, 2007

Friday, September 21, 2007

September 20, 2007

September 14, 2007

August 30, 2007

Wednesday, August 22

Wednesday, August 1

Wednesday, July 25 - A Day Calling the Races

July 22, 2007