Review: Tropical Downs - A Novel of Peril and Misadventures in Search of the Elusive Automatic Bet by Mark Cramer. Horse racing fans and mystery fiction lovers alike will enjoy this well-written story revolving around shady dealings in the creation of a racetrack in Bolivia with some handicapping thrown in on the side.
Fabulous Strike wins the Gravesend Handicap (G3) - He caught pacesetter True Quality in the stretch and went on to win by 1 3/4 lengths with Good Card a distant third. Get the results, chart, and photos here.
2008 Year in Review - As we near the end of the year, it is time to take a look back at the highs and lows of 2008.
2008 Eclipse Award Finalists - The equine and human finalists for the Eclipse Awards have been announced and there are no real surpises. Check them all out here with past performances for all the horses.
Review: Tropical Downs - A Novel of Peril and Misadventures in Search of the Elusive Automatic Bet by Mark Cramer. Horse racing fans and mystery fiction lovers alike will enjoy this well-written story revolving around shady dealings in the creation of a racetrack in Bolivia with some handicapping thrown in on the side.
Fabulous Strike wins the Gravesend Handicap (G3) - He caught pacesetter True Quality in the stretch and went on to win by 1 3/4 lengths with Good Card a distant third. Get the results, chart, and photos here.
Review: Trip Handicapping: Watching Thoroughbred Race Replays DVD - by Dan Illman. Any veteran horseplayer or even a new fan who wants to learn more about what to look for in a race would enjoy this DVD, the first video entry in DRF Press' Elements of Handicapping series.
Review: Betting Synthetic Surfaces - Conquering Racing's Newest Frontier By Bill Finley. Using research and statistics, this book helps educate horseplayers on angles and strategies for synthetic races. An excellent way to prepare for this year's Breeders' Cup.
Review: Crushing the Cup 2008 - by Jim Mazur and Peter Mallett. An invaluable tool for trying to unlock the mysteries of handicapping the Breeders' Cup races at Santa Anita.
Review: Bet With The Best 2: Longshots - by Editors of the Daily Racing Form. This second installment builds on knowledge gained in the first book by focusing on uncovering longshot plays.
2008 Sovereign Awards - Canada's equivalent of the Eclipse Awards were handed out on Friday night in Toronto. Champion sprinter Fatal Bullet was named Horse of the Year, capping off a 4-award night for Danny Dion's Bear Stables. Get the results with vote totals and photos from the ceremony here.
Eagle Mountain wins the Cathay Pacific Hong Kong Cup (G1) - He got loose in the stretch and went on to win by 1 1/4 lengths over longshots Balius and Linngari with favorite Viva Pataca fourth. Get the results, chart, and photos here.
Good Ba Ba repeats in the Cathay Pacific Hong Kong Mile (G1) - He drew off to win by 2 1/2 lengths in a new track record time over Able One and Egyptian Ra. US hopeful Kip Deville was a lackluster 9th. Get the results, chart, and photos here.
Inspiration upsets in the Cathay Pacific Hong Kong Sprint (G1) - He got the lead in the stretch and held on to win by a nose over Green Birdie with favorite Apache Cat third by another nose. Get the results, chart, and photos here.
Doctor Dino wins the Cathay Pacific Hong Kong Vase (G1) - He just got up by a nose to win for the second year in a row. Purple Moon was second also by a nose with Jaguar Mail third. Get the results, chart, and photos here.
2008 Cathay Pacific Hong Kong International Races Entries - Entries have been taken for the four Group 1 races to be held at Sha Tin on Sunday, and each has at least 13 runners. Eagle Mountain and Viva Pataca top the list for the Hong Kong Cup while Good Ba Ba and Kip Deville are favored in the Mile. Get the entries, posts, and past performances for all 4 races here.
2008 Cathay Pacific Hong Kong International Workouts - Photos and comments for 24 of the entrants for the races on Monday in Hong Kong. Included are American horses Kip Deville, Awesome Gem, and Out of Control.
2008 Cathay Pacific International Jockey Championship - Local hero Douglas Whyte won for a record third time with French jockey Christophe Lemaire second. Cornelio Velasquez won one race and tied for third with German Andreas Starke. Get the results and photos here.
Sovereign Award Finalists - The Jockey Club of Canada has announced the finalists for the equine and human categories for the 2008 Sovereign Awards, Canada's year-end championships.
Christmas Shopping Special - It is that time of year again. Here are some gift suggestions as well as places online where you can shop for anything and everything horse racing related.
2009 Horse Calendars - A look at what is available for 2009 from Calendars.com and Cafe Press. Both racing and other horse calendars are here including my annual thoroughbred and harness racing calendars. Also check out my Christmas cards.
Tale of Ekati wins the Cigar Mile (G1) on a DQ - Harlem Rocker finished first by a nose, but was disqualified to second for interference with Tale of Ekati in the stretch. Get the results, chart, and photos here.
Kentucky Jockey Club and Golden Rod Stakes - Beethoven held off Giant Oak to win the Kentucky Jockey Club for 2-year-old colts while Rachel Alexandra led wire-to-wire to win the Golden Rod for the fillies at Churchill Downs. Get the results, chart, and photos for these plus the Caressing Handicap here.
Breeders Crown 2 & 3-year-old Divisions - Saturday night at the Meadowlands the 8 Breeders' Crown races for 2 & 3-year-old trotters and pacers were held. Somebeachsomewhere was the winner in the 3-year-old Colt and Gelding Pace, making him a cinch for year end honors. Get the results, chart, and photos for all 8 races here.
Einstein takes the Clark Handicap (G2) - He caught pacesetter and favorite Commentator in the stretch, going on to win over late rallier Delightful Kiss while Commentator faded to third. Get the results, chart, and photos here.
Miss Isella wins the Falls City Handicap (G2) - She opened up in the stretch to win by a length over Skylighter while Tell It As It Is rallied for third. Get the results, chart, and photos here.
2009 Graded Stakes List - The American Graded Stakes Committee has assigned graded status to 488 races for 2009. 13 races were upgraded, with 6 new Grade 1 races, 7 new Grade 2 races, and 10 new Grade 3 races. Get the details here.
Review: Trip Handicapping: Watching Thoroughbred Race Replays DVD - by Dan Illman. Any veteran horseplayer or even a new fan who wants to learn more about what to look for in a race would enjoy this DVD, the first video entry in DRF Press' Elements of Handicapping series.
Shadowless surprises in the Kennedy Road Stakes (G3) - He got up to win by a half length at Woodbine over Rouse the Cat while favorite Storm Treasure rallied late for third. Get the results, chart, and photos here.
Dry Martini wins a wet Stuyvesant Handicap (G3) - It was a gray horse trifecta as Dry Martini drew off to win by 3 1/4 lengths over Stud Muffin and Temporary Saint in the slop at Aqueduct. Get the results, chart, and photos here.
Jammed Lovely and Autumn Stakes Results - Ginger Brew drew off to win by 4 1/4 lengths in the Jammed Lovely off a 4 month lay-off. Marchfield rallied in the stretch to win the Autumn Stakes (G2) in a photo over Stunning Stag and Ice Bear. Get the results, charts, and photos here.
Viewed upsets in the 2008 Melbourne Cup - He got the lead in the stretch and held off the late close of Bauer to win the 2008 Melbourne Cup. It was a record 12th Melbourne Cup win for his trainer Bart Cummings. Get the results and photos here.
Review: Breeders' Cup World Championships: The First 25 Years DVD - by HorsePhotos. This DVD is a montage of still photos of highlights from the first 24 years of Breeders' Cup with narration which any racing fan should enjoy.
Breeders' Cup Wrap-up - An overview of the highlights, big achievements, attendance, and wagering figures for the 2008 Breeders' Cup World Championships at Santa Anita Park.
2008 Breeders' Cup Saturday Results - Saturday was bigger than ever with 9 championship races. The feature race was the $5 million Breeders' Cup Classic where European invader Raven's Pass upset heavy favorite Curlin, who was 4th. More for each race here: MarathonTurf SprintDirt MileMileJuvenileJuvenile TurfSprintTurfClassic 2008 Breeders' Cup Friday Results - This year Friday featured 5 races for fillies and mares only, headlined by the $2 million Ladies' Classic (formerly the Distaff) won by heavy favorite Zenyatta. Also on the card, Stardom Bound won the Juvenile Fillies and Forever Together won the Filly and Mare Turf. More for each race here: F&M SprintJuvenile Fillies TurfJuvenile FilliesF&M TurfLadies Classic Breeders' Cup Virtual Postcards - All 14 winners plus a couple of others photos you can send to your online friends. Also lots of other types of racing postcards are available.
Thursday Breeders' Cup Workouts - Photos and comments for 19 more of the Breeders' Cup horses at Santa Anita on Thursday, including Curlin on the track and schooling in the paddock and Zenyatta.
Wednesday Breeders' Cup Workouts - Photos and comments for 42 more of the Breeders' Cup horses on the track at Santa Anita on Wednesday morning, including Juvenile Fillies favorite Stardom Bound and all 8 of Aidan O'Brien's horses.
2008 Breeders' Cup Entries - Get the final entries, post positions, and morning line odds for the 14 Breeders' Cup races. Lots of info for each race with links to horse profiles and free past performances.
Tuesday Breeders' Cup Workouts - Photos and comments for 29 more of the Breeders' Cup horses on the track at Santa Anita on Tuesday morning, including Marathon favorite Sixties Icon and lots of 2-year-olds.
Monday Breeders' Cup Workouts - Photos and comments for 37 of the Breeders' Cup horses on the track at Santa Anita on Monday morning, including Curlin.
Breeders' Cup Weather - What will the weather be like at Santa Anita on October 24-25? Here are lots of places to find out! One thing is sure, rain is very unlikely this year.
2010 Breeders' Cup location announced - Churchill Downs has been selected as the host track for the 27th edition of the Breeders' Cup World Championships to be run in 2010.
Curlin works at Santa Anita - Photos from his workout between races at Santa Anita on October 13 where he went 5f in 59.12. They will enter in the Classic based on that work.
Zarkava remains undefeated in the Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe - She became the first filly to win in 15 years and stretched her unbeaten streak to 7. Youmzain was second again this year while It's Gino and Soldier of Fortune dead heated for third. Get the results, chart, and photos here.
2008 Arc de Triomphe Undercard Stakes - Also on the card were 4 other Group 1 races: the Prix de l'Opera, Prix de l'Abbaye, Prix Jean-Luc Lagardere, and Prix Marcel Boussac. Get the results, charts, and photos for all 4 races here.
Huge upset in the 2008 Pattison Canadian International (G1) - 30-1 longshot Marsh Side took the lead in the stretch and never looked back, winning by 1 3/4 lengths over 39-1 Spice Route with Champs Elysees third. Favorite Doctor Dino was a lackluster 5th. Get the results, chart, and photos here.
Folk Opera wins the 2008 E.P. Taylor Stakes (G1) - She was a heavy favorite and led wire-to-wire, winning by 1 3/4 lengths over Callwood Dancer and Sealy Hill. Get the results, chart, and photos here.
2008 Nearctic (G2) and Summer (G3) Stakes - 8-1 shot True to Tradition got up by a nose over 52-1 Rouse the Cat to win the Nearctic Stakes (G2) for the turf sprinters. Grand Adventure won by a head over Skipadate in the Summer Stakes (G3) for 2-year-olds on the turf. Get the results, charts, and photos for both here.
Pre-Arc Saturday at Longchamp - The day before the Arc de Triomphe featured the 7 furlong Prix de la Foret (G1) won by Paco Boy and the 2 1/2 mile Prix du Cadran (G1) won by Bannaby, both of which were ridden by jockey Christophe Soumillon. Get the results, charts, and photos for these and the four Group 2 race on the card here.
The Breeders' Cup at Santa Anita - A look the history of the Breeders' Cup at Santa Anita and its influence on the event.
Kentucky Cup day at Turfway Park - There were 5 stakes on the card headlined by the Kentucky Cup Classic (G2) won by Zanjero. Bear Stables and trainer Reade Baker took both the Distaff (G3), with Bear Now, and the Sprint (G3), with Fatal Bullet. Get the results, charts, and photos for all 5 races here.
Curlin wins the Jockey Club Gold Cup (G1) - He beat Wanderin Boy by 3/4 of a length to become racing's first $10 million winner and take Cigar's place at the top of the all time money earners list. Get the results, chart, and photos here.
Cocoa Beach takes the Beldame (G1) - She beat heavy favorite Ginger Punch by a half length in the slop at Belmont Park. Get the results, chart, and photos here.
Grand Couturier runs away with the Joe Hirsch Turf Classic (G1) - He drew off to a 10 1/4 length victory over longshots Interpatation and Summer Patriot. Get the results, chart, and photos here.
Black Seventeen upsets in the Vosburgh Stakes (G1) - He just got up by a head over Fabulous Strike to pay $49.60 to win, while favorite Lucky Island finished 6th. Get the results, chart, and photos here.
Dynaforce romps in the Flower Bowl Invitational (G1) - She took the lead at the start and held off a bid by favored Mauralakana in the stretch to win 4 lengths. Get the results, chart, and photos here.
Closing day of the 'J' track at Picov Downs - Sunday was the final day of the season at this small quarterhorse track in Ajax, Ontario, before they build a new 5 furlong oval. Included is the results of their first ever graded race, the Alex Picov Memorial Championship (G3).
Indian Blessing romps in the Gallant Bloom Handicap - She drew off to win by 6 1/4 lengths over Elope and Port Bonheur. Also on the card, Informed Decision won the Missile Belle Stakes. Get the results, charts, and photos here.
Gazelle Stakes (G1) and Noble Damsel Handicap (G3) Results - Music Note won easily in the Gazelle for the 3-year-old fillies while Criminologist just got up by a nose over Waquoit's Love in the Noble Damsel for the female turf specialists. Get the results, charts, and photos here.
Matron and Futurity Stakes (G2) Results - Belmont Park held two big races forthe 2-year-olds on Saturday with Doremifasollatido drawing off to win the Matron for the fillies while Charitable Man held off Flying Pegasus in the Futurity for the boys. Get the results, charts, and photos here.
Natalma and Swynford Stakes Results - C Karma won by a neck in the Natalma (G3), a "Win and You're In" race for the Breeders' Cup Juvenile Fillies Turf while Mine That Bird won the Swynford for the 2-year-old colts on the main track. Get the results, charts, and photos here.
Deweycheatumnhowe wins the Canadian Trotting Classic - He bounced back from his 2nd place finish in the elimination to win the $1 million race by 2 lengths, his 18th win from 19 career starts. Get the results, chart, and photos here.
Rahy's Attorney upsets in the Woodbine Mile (G1) - The Ontario-bred gelding held off the filly Ventura to win by 1 1/4 lengths while heavy favorite Kip Deville was a well beaten 5th. Get the results, chart, and photos here.
Northern Dancer Turf (G1) and Canadian Stakes (G2) results - Champs Elysees just got up by a nose to win the Northern Dancer over favorite Quijano, while J'Ray rallied from last to win the Canadian Stakes. Get the results, charts, and photos here.
Woodbine Mile and Northern Dancer Stakes Entries - Woodbine has two big Grade 1 races on the turf Sunday, the $1 million Woodbine Mile and the $750,000 Northern Dancer Stakes. Get the entries, odds, and past performances here.
Curlin wins the Woodward Stakes (G1) - He took the lead 3-wide in the stretch and won by 1 1/4 lengths over longest shot on the board Past the Point with Wanderin Boy 3rd. Get the results, chart, and photos here.
First Defence romps in the Forego Stakes (G1) - He drew off late to win by 6 3/4 lengths while favorite Lucky Island was a distant 6th after a bad start. Get the results, chart, and photos here.
2008 Breeders Crown Open Races - The 4 championship races for the older pacers and trotters were held at Mohawk on Saturday night with Corleone Kosmos winning the Open Trot and Mister Big the Open Pace. Get the results, charts, and photos for all 4 races here.
2008 Metro Pace - Also at Mohawk on Saturday was the $1 million Metro Pace won by Major in Art, the She's a Great Lady won by Right Right, and 2 divisions of the Simcoe Stakes. Get the results, charts, and photos for all 4 races here.
Intangaroo draws off in the Ballerina Stakes (G1) - She rallied from far back to win by 2 3/4 lengths over Miraculous Miss and Sugar Swirl at Saratoga. Get the results, chart, and photos here.
Colonel John wins the Travers Stakes (G1) - He got the lead in the stretch and held off the late close of Mambo in Seattle with favorite Pyro a distant third to win the mid-summer derby at Saratoga. Get the results, chart, and photos here.
Travers Undercard Stakes - Visionaire won the King's Bishop (G1), Shakis came on the far outside to win the Bernard Baruch (G2) for the second time, and Porte Bonheur upset in the Victory Ride (G3). Get the results, chart, and photos here.
Ginger Punch gets the nod in the Personal Ensign Stakes (G1) - She just got up to win by a nose over Lemon Drop Mom at Saratoga on Friday. Get the results, chart, and photos here.
Wait a While repeats in the Ballston Spa Handicap - She won by a length over late closing Carriage Trail and Rutherienne. Get the results, charts, and photos here for this plus two undercard stakes.
Summer Patriot romps in the John's Call Stakes - He ran away to win by 7 3/4 lengths over Taconeo and Codeword in the 1 5/8 mile turf race at Saratoga. Get the results, chart, and photos here including race namesake John's Call who led the post parade.
Alabama Stakes and Sword Dancer Invitational - Saturday at Saratoga, Proud Spell held off Music Note to win the Alabama Stakes (G1) while Grand Couturier won the Sword Dancer (G1) for the second straight year over late closing Better Talk Now. Get the results, chart, and photos here.
Mister Big dominates the Canadian Pacing Derby - He drew off to win the $702,000 race at Mohawk over Western Shore and Eagle Luck. Get the results, chart, and photos here plus Thumbelina the world's smallest horse.
Spirit One upsets in the Arlington Million (G1) - He won wire-to-wire over favorite Archipenko with Lord Nelson third, making it a foreign-based sweep of the top spots. Get the results, chart, and photos here.
Mauralakana wins the Beverly D. (G1) - She came around 3 wide to get the lead in the stretch and win by 1 1/4 lengths over late closer Communique, while favorite Precious Kitten faded to 5th. Get the results, chart, and photos here.
Winchester runs away with the Secretariat Stakes (G1) - He drew away in the stretch to win by 7 1/4 lengths over Plan with favorite Tizdejavu fading to 3rd after leading for the first mile. Get the results, chart, and photos here.
Seaside Retreat a mild upset in the Nijinsky Stakes - He duelled favorite Strike a Deal down the stretch, getting up to win by a length in a new course record for 1 1/4 miles on the turf at Woodbine. Get the results, chart, and photos here.
Big Brown returns a winner in the Haskell Invitational (G1) - He struggled in the stretch, but finally caught pacesetter Coal Play late to win by 1 3/4 lengths with Cool Coal Man a distant 3rd. Get the results, chart, and photos here.
Haskell Undercard Stakes - There were 7 other stakes on the Haskell card including the Matchmaker (G3) won by J'ray and the Oceanport (G3) won by Silver Tree. Get the results, charts, and photos for all 7 here.
Marlang wins the final leg of the Canadian Triple Crown - He led the whole way in the 1 1/2 mile Breeders' Stakes at Woodbine to win over Sligovitz and favorite Solitaire. Get the results, charts, and photos for this and the Nandi Stakes here.
Deweycheatumnhowe wins the Hambletonian - He had to work to hold off the late close by Crazed but remained unfeated making the $1.5 million race for trotters at the Meadowlands his 15 career victory. Get the results, charts, and photos for this and the Hambo Oaks won by Creamy Mimi here.
Indian Blessing romps in the Test Stakes - She drew off to win at Saratoga by 7 lengths as the 2-5 favorite with Sweet Hope and Ms. Margaret H. next. Get the results, charts, and photos for both here.
Jim Dandy and Lake George Stakes - Macho Again held off a late run by Pyro to win the Jim Dandy on Sunday. On Friday, My Princess Jess edged clear late to win the Lake George over Alwajeeha. Get the results, charts, and photos for both here.
Whitney and Alfred G. Vanderbilt Handicaps - Commentator sprang to the front from the gate and never looked back in the Whitney, with Student Council and Grasshopper finishing 2nd and 3rd. In the Vanderbilt, favorite Abraaj closed down the middle of the track to win going away. Get the results, charts, and photos here.
Go For Wand Handicap and The Diana - Heavy favorite Ginger Punch won for the second year in a row in the Go For Wand despite a sudden thundershower. In the Diana, Forever Together rallied from last to win over Dynaforce and Rutherienne. Get the results, charts, and photos here.
Music Note an easy winner in the Coaching Club American Oaks - She drew off to win by 11 lengths as the heavy favorite with stablemate Little Belle second and longshot Flaming Slew third. Get the results, chart, and photos here.
Curlin wins Horse of the Year - The 2007 Eclipse Awards were handed out on Monday night and Curlin was the big winner. Get all the winners with photos and vote totals here.
Stallion Postcards - A selection of online postcards to send to your friends featuring 12 of the stallions from the farm tour.
2008 Canadian International (G1) Entries - A field of 10 was entered headed by Doctor Dino and Champs Elysees. Also on the card, the E.P. Taylor Stakes (G1), the Nearctic Stakes (G2), and the Summer Stakes (G3). All 4 are on the turf and Breeders' Cup "Win and You're In" races.
Art Official upsets in the Meadowlands Pace - He wore down undefeated favorite Somebeachsomewhere to get the win by a neck, setting a new world record time for 3-year-old pacers of 1:47 flat. Get the results, chart, and photos here.
Kip Deville dominates in the Poker Handicap - He led most of the way before drawing off to win by 2 3/4 lengths over Tam Lin and Operation RedDawn. Get the results, chart, and photos here.
Harlem Rocker romps in the Prince of Wales Stakes - He was never far back and took the lead in the stretch to win by 1 1/4 lengths over East End Tap and Pronger. Get the results, charts, and photos for this and 2 undercard stakes here.
Red Rocks wins the Man o' War (G1) - He drew off to win by 2 lengths over Curlin, who was making his turf debut. Better Talk Now rallied late for third. Get the results, charts, and photos here.
Dance Smartly Stakes and Toronto Cup - The Niagara Queen led wire-to-wire to win the Dance Smartly (G2) while Secret Getaway came from off the pace to win the Toronto Cup. Get the results, charts, and photos here.
Man o'War Stakes Preview - Curlin will make his turf debut on Saturday in the Man o'War Stakes against a field of top turf horses. Here are some photos of him and Red Rocks at Belmont Park on Friday morning plus a link to free past performances for the race.
Prince of Wales Stakes Entries - A field of 8 was entered for the 73rd running of the second leg of Canada's Triple Crown. Queen's Plate winner Not Bourbon is the favorite at 7-5 with Harlem Rocker second choice at 2-1. Get the entries, odds, and free past performances here.
Frozen Fire upsets in the Irish Derby - He rallied from far back to draw off by 2 lengths over Casual Conquest with favorite Tartan Bearer in third. Get the results, charts, and photos here.
Mint Lane cruises in the Dwyer Stakes - He led the whole way, winning by 2 3/4 over longshot Tizbig. Also on the card, Banrock won the Thunder Puddles Stakes. Get the results, charts, and photos here.
United Nations Stakes Day at Monmouth - Presious Passion got his first Grade 1 win going wire-to-wire on yielding turf in the United Nations. Also on the card, Notional upset Gottcha Gold in the Salvator Mile (G3) and Maddy's Lion won the Mr. Prospector Stakes. Get the results, charts, and photos here.
Tom Fool and First Flight Handicaps - Belmont Park kicked off the July 4th weekend with two Grade 2 sprints, the Tom Fool won by Lucky Island and the First Flight won by Any Limit. Get the results, charts, and photos for both here.
Dominion Day and Sweet Briar Too Stakes - Jiggs Coz won wire-to-wire in the Dominion Day (G3) over last year's winner True Metropolitan, while Executive Flight beat favorite My List by 1 1/4 lengths in the Sweet Briar Too Stakes at Woodbine. Get the results, charts, and photos for both here.
Suburban Handicap and Mother Goose Stakes - Frost Giant upset at 40-1 in the Suburban, beating Solar Flare by a half length with favorite A.P. Arrow a dismal 6th. Music Note won by 3 1/2 in a troubled Mother Goose where favorite Proud Spell was disqualified from 2nd to 3rd behind Never Retreat. Get the results, charts, and photos for these and the Elmont Stakes here.
Napoleon wins in a bizarre Yonkers Trot finish - He led until the stretch then inherited the win when favorite Holiday Credit broke stride on the lead with only 50 yards to go. Get the results, chart, and photos here plus the Hudson Trot won by Creamy Mimi.
Royal Oath rules in the King Edward at Woodbine - He duelled down the stretch with pacesetter Ice Bear, prevailing by a half length at the wire with Seaside Retreat rallying for third. Get the results, chart, and photos here.
Not Bourbon wins the Queen's Plate - He stalked the pace then took over in the stretch, holding off the filly Ginger Brew by a head at the wire with Solitaire far back in 3rd. Get the results, chart, and photos here.
Queen's Plate Undercard Stakes Results - Two Grade 3 turf stakes are also on the Queen's Plate card. Heros Reward won wire-to-wire in the Scotts Highlander Stakes as did Mission Approved in the Singspiel Stakes. Get the results, chart, and photos for both here.
Queen's Plate Barbecue - The Canadian Triple Crown is about to get started with the Queen's Plate on Sunday June 21. Monday 10 of the 15 horses expected to enter were paraded at the annual Queen's Plate barbecue.
Curlin wins easy in the Stephen Foster Handicap - The heavy favorite did not disappoint as he drew off to win easily by 4 1/4 lengths over Einstein and Barcola. Get the results, chart, and photos here.
Stephen Foster Undercard Stakes - Also on the card were the Fleur de Lis won by Hystericalady, the Jefferson Cup won by Tizdejavu, the Northern Dancer won by Pyro, the Regret won by Pure Clan, and the Mint Julep won by Dreaming of Anna. Get the results, chart, and photos plus Ocean Colors from Friday here.
Somebeachsomewhere dominates in the Pepsi North America Cup - The undefeated pacer took the lead after the first quarter and drew off to win by 2 3/4 lengths over Badlands Nitro and Santanna Blue Chip. Get the results, chart, and photos for this and 4 other stakes on the card.
Da' Tara shocks in the 2008 Belmont Stakes - Longest shot on the board Da' Tara led the whole way, drawing off to win by 5 1/4 lengths over Denis of Cork. Heavy favorite Big Brown came up empty and was eased, finishing last. Get the results, chart, and photos here.
Belmont Stakes Field Photos - Each of the 9 Belmont Stakes starters on race day.
More Belmont Day Photos - 16 more photos including Shaquille O’Neal, the unused Triple Crown trophy, and more.
Manhattan Handicap and Just a Game Stakes Results - On the Belmont undercard, Dancing Forever just got up at the wire to beat favorite Out of Control in the Manhattan Handicap, while Ventura held off top choice Lady of Venice in the Just a Game Stakes. Get the results, chart, and photos here.
Acorn Stakes, True North Handicap, and Woody Stephens Stakes Results - Also on the Belmont undercard, Zaftig upset favorite Indian Blessing in the Acorn, top choice Benny the Bull got up in the final stride of the True North Handicap, and J Be K won wire-to-wire in the Woody Stephens Stakes. Get the results, chart, and photos here.
2008 Belmont Stakes Entries - A field of 10 was entered with Kentucky Derby and Preakess winner Big Brown drawing post #1 and set at morning line odds of 2-5. Get the entries, odds, and free past performances here. Update: Casino Drive scratched!
Brooklyn Handicap and Hill Prince Stakes - On the day before the Belmont Stakes, Delosvientos went wire-to-wire in the Brooklyn while Gio Ponti rallied from last to win the Hill Prince. Get the results, charts, and photos here.
Friday Belmont Workout Photos - Photos of Big Brown, Denis of Cork, Macho Again, and Guadalcanal on the track the day before the Belmont Stakes.
Not Bourbon by a neck in the Plate Trial - He just held off the late close of Solitaire while heavy favorite Harlem Rocker was a distant 4th. Get the results, chart, and photos here.
Memorial Day Weekend Workout Photos - details about Big Brown's quarter-crack plus workout photos for Casino Drive, Tale of Ekati, and others.
Divine Park wins the 2008 Metropolitan Handicap - He rallied in the stretch to catch pacesetter and favorite Commentator, then drew off to win the Met Mile by 2 lengths. Lord Snowdon closed from last to get 3rd. Get the results, chart, and photos here.
Looky Yonder upsets in the 2008 Vagrancy Handicap - She ran down favorite Dream Rush in the stretch to win by a length with Baroness Thatcher in third. Get the results, chart, and photos here.
Mauralakana wins the 2008 Sheepshead Bay Handicap - She drew off in the stretch to win by 3 lengths over Herboriste and Hostess. Also on the card By the Light won the Pearl City Stakes. Get the results, chart, and photos here.
All About Big Brown - A detailed history of the Kentucky Derby and Preakness winner and his connections with lots of photos. Will he become the next Triple Crown winner?
Big Brown wins easy in the 2008 Preakness - He drew off to win by 5 1/4 lengths over Macho Again and Icabad Crane, so it is on to New York and a Triple Crown chance in the Belmont Stakes. Get the results, chart, and photos here.
Preakness Virtual Postcards - 4 different Big Brown cards you can send to your online friends, plus the Preakness winners from 2002-2007. Also lots of other types of racing postcards are available.
Preakness Undercard Results and Photos - There were 8 other stakes on Preakness day, 5 of them graded, including the Dixie Stakes (G2) won by Pays to Dream and the Allaire DuPont Distaff (G2) won by Buy the Barrel. Get the results, charts, and photos for all 8 races here.
Preakness Field Photos - Each of the 12 Preakness starters in the post parade.
More Preakness Day Photos - 21 more photos including more of Big Brown's Preakness experience, the Navy Seal paratroopers, infield fans, and the Budweiser Clydesdales.
Student Council wins the Pimlico Special - He rallied from last early to win by a neck over pacesetter Gottcha Gold in the slop Friday, while favorite Grasshopper finished 5th. Get the results, chart, and photos here.
Black-Eyed Susan and undercard stakes results - Sweet Vendetta came on the stretch to win the Black-Eyed Susan over Shes All Eltish. Also on the Friday card were the Miss Preakness win by Palanka City, the Woodlawn won by Termsofengagement, and The Very One won by All Giving. Get the results, chart, and photos for all 4 here.
Preakness Thursday Workouts - Lots of Preakness horses were out on Thursday morning including Derby winner Big Brown. Here are 20 photos, at least 2 per horse, plus workout notes.
Alibi Breakfast - Thursday before the Preakness the traditional Alibi Breakfast is held where the trainers of all the horses make their excuses in case they don't win on Saturday and annual awards are given.
2008 Preakness Entries - A field of 13 was entered with Kentucky Derby winner Big Brown set as the heavy favorite at odds of 1-2. Get the post positions, odds, and free past performances here.
Analyzing the Top Preakness Contenders - Our annual analysis of the top contenders to try and select a winner by matching each to the profile of a Preakness winner.
Casino Drive wins the Peter Pan Stakes - He shipped over from Japan to prep for the Belmont and won easily by 5 3/4 lengths. Also on the card, Lucky Island won the Bold Ruler Handicap. Get the results, chart, and photos for both here.
Big Brown romps in the 2008 Kentucky Derby - He went off the 2.40-1 favorite and drew off to win by 4 3/4 lengths over the filly Eight Belles with Denis of Cork third. Sadly Eight Belles broke down after the race. Get the results, chart, and photos here.
Kentucky Derby Virtual Postcards - 4 different Big Brown cards you can send to your online friends, plus the Derby winners from 2001-2007. Also lots of other types of racing postcards are available including Eight Belles.
Eight Belles Tribute - A photo tribute to the gallant filly Eight Belles. She will be missed by many. Online postcards also available.
Kentucky Derby Undercard Results and Photos - There were 5 other stakes on Derby day including the Woodford Reserve Turf Classic (G1) won by Einstein. Get the results, charts, and photos for all 5 races here.
Kentucky Derby Field Photos - Each of the 20 Derby starters in the post parade.
More Derby Day Photos - 20 more photos including Curlin on the red carpet, more from the Derby, plus Big Brown on Sunday.
Derby Hat Photos - Hats are everywhere on Oaks and Derby day. Here are 64 hats from elegant to ridiculous for your enjoyment.
Kentucky Oaks Results and Photos - Favorite Proud Spell won by 5 lengths in the slop with Little Belle second and Pure Clan third. Get the results, chart, and photos here.
Kentucky Oaks Undercard Results and Photos - There were 5 other stakes on Oaks day including the Louisville Stakes (G2) won by Ginger Punch. Get the results, charts, and photos for all 5 races here.
2008 Kentucky Derby Entries and Post Positions - A field of 20 was entered with Big Brown in post #20 set as the favorite at 3-1. Get the entries, post positions, and morning line odds here!
Analyzing the Top Kentucky Derby Contenders - Our annual analysis of the top contenders to try and select a winner by matching each to the profile of a Kentucky Derby winner.
Thursday Kentucky Derby Photos - 15 Derby horses, including favorite Big Brown, and 7 Oaks fillies, both in the morning and some paddock schooling in the afternoon at Churchill Downs.
Wednesday Kentucky Derby Photos - 14 Derby horses and 8 Oaks fillies plus 2007 Horse of the Year Curlin from the morning works and paddock schooling at Churchill Downs.
2008 Kentucky Oaks Entries - A field of 12 was entered headlined by trainer Larry Jones' filly Proud Spell. Get the entries, odds, and post positions here.
Monday Kentucky Derby Photos - Six Derby horses and two Oaks fillies from Friday and Monday morning on the track and in the barns courtesy of EquiSportPhotos.com.
2008 Breeders' Cup Ticket Applications - Register online now to get the application mailed on May 1st. Applications for the lottery are due by June 9 and if you get tickets for this year you get an option to keep them in 2009.
Derby Contender Graded Stakes Earnings - Ranks the top contenders by earnings through April 20. This is what determines who can get in the starting gate on Derby day. This is the final list since there are no more graded preps left.
2008 Triple Crown Trail - Check out the schedule and results for all the preps leading to the 2008 Triple Crown. All the preps are over now, and all results are posted.
2008 Hall of Fame Inductees - Three horses, two jockeys, and one trainer have been elected to the National Museum of Racing's Hall of Fame this year. Find out about them all here.
Week 3 Stakes at Keeneland - The featured stakes of the week was the Lexington Stakes (G2) which was won by Behindatthebar while favorite never made a move and finished 6th. Get the results, chart, and photos here for this plus the Doubledogdare, Ben Ali, Appalachian, Fort Harrod, Giant's Causeway, and Royal Chase Stakes.
Review: Betting the Kentucky Derby - How to Wager and Win on America's Biggest Horse Race by Dean Keppler. Breaks the task of handicapping the Derby into easy to understand strategies that any bettor at any level of play can implement and gives strategies for wagering as well.
Review: Kentucky Derby Glasses Price Guide - A Comprehensive Guide to Collecting Kentucky Derby Mint Julep Glasses and Shot Glasses edited by Judy Marchman. This new 2008 edition is an invaluable tool for anyone who collects Derby, Preakness, Belmont, or Breeders' Cup glasses and shots.
Blue Grass Weekend Stakes at Keeneland - Monba won the Blue Grass by a neck of Cowboy Cal with favorite Pyro a dismal 10th. Get the results, chart, and photos here for this plus the Commonwealth, Jenny Wiley, Maker's Mark Mile, Beaumont, and Shakertown Stakes.
Derby and Oaks Future Wager Pool Three - Pool 3 is now closed and the favorite for the Derby was Big Brown at 3-1 while Eight Belles was the favorite for the Oaks at 8-1. Get all the horses, final odds, and free past performances here.
Wood Memorial and Bay Shore Stakes - Tale of Ekati duelled with favorite War Pass in the stretch to win by a half length in the Wood Memorial. In the Bay Shore Stakes, favored J Be K drew off to win by 5 lengths over Gattopardo. Get the results, chart, and photos here.
Carter and Excelsior Handicaps - On the card with the Wood, Bustin Stones won the Carter Handicap, his first Grade 1 race, remaining undefeated in 6 career starts. Temporary Saint led wire to wire to upset favorite Nite Light in the Excelsior Handicap. Get the results, chart, and photos here.
Curlin romps in the Dubai World Cup - He took command in the stretch and drew off to win by 7 3/4 lengths over Asiatic Boy and Well Armed. Get the results, chart, and photos here.
Big Brown an easy winner in the Florida Derby - He led the whole way and drew off to win by 5 lengths over longshots Smooth Air and Tomcito. Get the results, chart, and photos here for this plus 3 other stakes on the card.
Dubai World Cup Scenic Photos - A selection of scenic and other interesting photos from Dubai World Cup day.
Sun Classique wins the Dubai Sheema Classic - She beat the boys by 2 3/4 in the 1 1/2 mile turf race with favorite Viva Pataca second and Doctor Dino third. Get the results, chart, and photos here.
Jay Peg upsets in the Dubai Duty Free - The South African-bred rallied on the far outside to just get up over Darjina, paying over $75 to win. Get the results, chart, and photos here.
US horses strike again in the Golden Shaheen - Benny the Bull battled down the stretch then drew off to win by 1 3/4 lengths over Idiot Proof in the Dubai Golden Shaheen, once again proving the US horses dominate the race. Get the results, chart, and photos here.
Honour Devil takes the UAE Derby - He took the lead at the quarter pole and drew off to win by 4 1/4 lengths over stablemate Royal Vintage. Get the results, chart, and photos here.
Diamond Stripes wins the Godolphin Mile - He battled for the lead the whole way, taking over at the final furlong to win by 1 1/2 lengths. Get the results, chart, and photos for this and the Dubai Kahayla Classic here.
Friday Dubai World Cup Workouts - Photos and comments for 28 more horses entered in the Dubai World Cup card on Saturday. It was a busy morning as everyone tried to get a last trip over the track before race day.
Thursday Dubai World Cup Workouts - Photos and comments for 24 more horses pre-entered in the Dubai World Cup card on Saturday, including 2007 Horse of the Year Curlin.
Dubai World Cup Entries and Post Position Draw - A field of 13 was entered for the World Cup with Curlin set as the 2-5 favorite. Get the all the entries plus free past performances for the entire card here.
Wednesday Dubai World Cup Workouts - Photos and comments for 21 more horses pre-entered in the Dubai World Cup card on Saturday, including 2007 Breeders' Cup Sprint runner-up Idiot Proof.
Tuesday Dubai World Cup Workouts - Photos and comments for 22 more horses pre-entered in the Dubai World Cup card on Saturday, including 2007 Japan Cup winner Vermilion.
Monday Dubai World Cup Workouts - Photos and comments for 22 horses pre-entered in the Dubai World Cup card on Saturday, including 2007 Horse of the Year Curlin.
Adriano wins the 2008 Lane's End Stakes - He stalked the pace before taking off to win by 2 1/2 lengths over favorite Halo Najib with Medjool third. Get the results, charts, and photos for this plus the Rushaway and Hansel Stakes also for the 3-year-olds.
Maren's Meadow wins the 2008 Bourbonette Oaks - She went wide to win by 1 1/4 lengths over Valentine Fever and favorite A to the Croft on the Lane's End Stakes undercard. Get the results, charts, and photos for this plus the Queen Stakes.
Review: My Guy Barbaro - A Jockey's Journey Through Love, Triumph, and Heartbreak with America's Favorite Horse by Edgar Prado with John Eisenberg. Jockey Edgar Prado tells about his special bond with Barbaro and how the whole experience affected him.
2008 Cheltenham Festival - Marking the end of the winter National Hunt racing season, this is where the top jumps horses from England and Ireland meet up. Get the results, chart, and photos for the 10 Group 1 jump races here.
Louisiana Derby and Fair Grounds Oaks - Pyro lived up to his short odds with an easy 3 length victory in the 2008 Louisiana Derby. Proud Spell finally beat her nemesis Indian Blessing in the Fair Grounds Oaks in a virtual match race. Get the results, chart, and photos here.
Louisiana Derby Undercard Stakes - Also on the card were the New Orleans Handicap won by Circular Quay, the Mervyn Muniz Handicap won by Proudinsky, the Duncan F. Kenner Stakes won by Euroears, and the Bienville Stakes won by Danceroftherealm. Get the results, chart, and photos here.
Derby and Oaks Future Wager Pool Two - Pool 2 is now closed and the favorite for the Derby was Pyro at 4-1 while Country Star was the favorite for the Oaks at 5-1. Get all the horses, final odds, and free past performances here.
John Battaglia Memorial Stakes - Absolutely Cindy, the only filly in the race, rallied from last to upset at odds of 20-1 at Turfway Park. Get the results, chart, and photos here.
Curlin wins his 2008 debut - 2007 Horse of the Year and Breeders' Cup Classic winner Curlin made a successful return to the races in 2008 with an easy win Thursday night in the $175,000 Jaguar Trophy at Nad al Sheba Racecourse in Dubai. Next up for him should be the Dubai World Cup.
Fountain of Youth Stakes Weekend - Sunday at Gulfstream Park, Cool Coal Man won his stakes debut in the Fountain of Youth (G2) while 2-year-old champ War Pass won his first start of the year easily in an allowance. On Saturday, Einstein won the Gulfstream Park Turf Stakes (G1).
Winning Colors 1985-2008 - Winning Colors, the third and last filly to win the Kentucky Derby, was euthanized at the age of 23 on Sunday due to colic complications.
Trainer Steve Asmussen wins #4000 - Trainer Steve Asmussen saddled his 4,000th winner on Sunday February 17 when J J's Bud won the third race at Oaklawn Park. Asmussen now ranks eighth on the all-time list for wins by a trainer.
Kentucky Derby and Oaks Future Wagers Pool 1 - Pool 1 is now closed and the field was the favorite for the Derby at 3-1 while Indian Blessing is the favorite for the Oaks at 4-1. Get all the horses, odds, and free past performances here.
Jockey Edgar Prado wins #6000 - Jockey Edgar Prado won his 6,000th race on Sunday, February 10, 2008 aboard Sumphin in the 6th race at Gulfstream Park. He is the 16th jockey in North America to achieve this feat.
Risen Star and Silverbulletday Stakes - Pyro made an impressive late rally to win the Risen Star while Indian Blessing outclassed her rivals in the Silverbulletday. Get the results, charts, and photos for both here.
Mineshaft Handicap and Pan Zareta Stakes - Favorite Grasshopper drew away in the Mineshaft as did Graeme Six in the Pan Zareta. Get the results, charts, and photos for both here.
Fair Grounds Handicap and Colonel Power Stakes - Daytona led wire-to-wire in the Fair Ground Handicap while Euroears got up to win in the Colonel Power. Get the results, charts, and photos for both here.
2009 Breeders' Cup World Championships to be held at Santa Anita - Santa Anita Park will be the first track to host the Breeders' Cup World Championships in consecutive years as they were selected to host the 2009 event as well as the 2008 event already scheduled.
2008 Triple Crown Nominations - The early nominations have been released and 449 horses have been nominated this year, only 1 less than last year. Check out the list sorted by name, sire, trainer, or owner.
2008 Donn Handicap and Swale Stake - Spring at Last was a mild upset in the Donn while Eaton's Gift won the Swale Stakes on Saturday at Gulfstream. Get the results, charts, and photos for both here.
Review: Kentucky Derby 133 Review - edited by Leonard Lusky. This beautiful coffee table size photo book gives the full experience of Street Sense's Derby win in over 120 lovely photos.
Barbaro to be buried at Churchill Downs - Owners Roy and Gretchen Jackson announced on the one-year anniversary of his death, that 2006 Kentucky Derby winner Barbaro's ashes will be buried at a special monument to be built outside Gate 1 at Churchill Downs. A life-size bronze statue will be unveiled at the site in 2009.
2008 Sunshine Millions - In the 6th renewal of this event for Florida and California-breds, Breeders' Cup Distaff winner Ginger Punch won her 2008 debut in the Sunshine Millions Distaff while Go Between took the Classic at Santa Anita. Get the results, charts, and photos for all 8 races here.
2007 Experimental Free Handicap - 2-year-old champion War Pass tops the list at 127 lbs. with Dixie Chatter second at 120. Indian Blessing is the top filly at 123 lbs. Get the details and who the dual qualifiers are here.
Review: Fix Six - by Noel Michaels. This novel brings up just about every crooked thing ever done in racing and weaves it into an interesting and humerous work of fiction.
Santa Anita Weekend Stakes Results - There were 6 graded stakes at Santa Anita this weekend including the San Rafael won by El Gato Malo, the Santa Ynez won by Indian Blessing, and the San Fernando won by Air Commander. Get the results, charts, and photos for all 6 here.
"Road to the Derby" Kickoff Day at the Fair Grounds - There were 6 stakes on the card including the Lecomte won by Z Fortune, the Tiffany Lass won by Jolie the Cat, and the Louisiana Handicap won by Silver Lord. Get the results, charts, and photos for all 6 here.
First Lady Handicap Results - Favorite Sugar Swirl drew away in the stretch to win by 2 1/2 lengths at Gulfstream Park. Get the results, chart, and photo here.
Curlin has his first workout for 2008 - Breeders Cup Classic winner and Eclipse Award finalist Curlin finally made his first official return to the racetrack as a 4-year-old on Sunday morning with a timed workout at the Fair Grounds in New Orleans.