Florida Horse 2012 by Florida Equine Publications

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Go to FTBOA.com to download the registration form FTBOA FEE SCHEDULE FTBOA MEMBER FEE On/Before Aug. 31 of Weanling Year . . . . . . . . . . . .$75 Between Sept. 1 and Dec. 31 of Weanling Year . .$150 Yearling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$300 * 2-Year-Old and Older . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$7,500 FTBOA NON-MEMBER FEE On/Before Aug. 31 of Weanling Year . . . . . . . . . . .$150 Between Aug. 31 and Dec. 31 of Weanling Year . .$300 Yearling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$600 * 2-Year-Old and Older . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$7,500

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FLORIDA THOROUGHBRED BREEDERS’ AND OWNERS’ ASSOCIATION

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FEATURES

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August • 2012/ VO L 5 5 / I S S U E 6

14 BRYLYNN FARM Rare Double graded stakes wins for Central Florida’s Brylynn Farm

20 RICEHORSE STABLES: Humble and Hungry Newlyweds Brandon Rice and Alexandra de Meric have enjoyed early success under their new RiceHorse Stables banner By Michael Compton

26 RON THE GREEK: Numerous Milestones Florida-bred Ron the Greek keeps notching up milestones By Brock Sheridan

28 TURBO COMPRESSOR Turbo Compressor continues Florida dominance in United Nations By Brock Sheridan

32 ROMANCING THE ROONEY North American champion female sprinter, Musical Romance, wins the Princess Rooney By Heather Thomas

44 SUMMIT OF SPEED: In Command Offspring of Journeyman Stud stallions call the shots at Calder’s Summit of Speed By Michael Compton

48 TRF: From Prison to Paddock At the Florida TRF facility the horses are cared for solely by female inmates from the Lowell Correctional Institute By Melanie LaCour

4 THE FLORIDA HORSE • AUGUST 2012

DEPARTMENTS/COLUMNS 6 THE BROCK TALK 8 FLORIDA FOCUS 35 MEMORY LANE: 1959 –My Dear Girl By Jo Ann Guidry

49 CHASE TO THE CHAMPIONSHIP 41 LEADING SIRES 56 FARM MANAGEMENT: Stop Storm Water Runoff By Jamie Cohen

58 PRACTICALLY SPEAKING: Scum of the Pond By Mark Shuffitt

60 YOUR FLORIDA HORSE PARK By Connie Duff Wise

62 PLAYER’S PAGE: Is Federal Legislation Good for Business By Paul Moran

COVER PHOTO OF TURBO COMPRESSOR: EQUIPHOTO CONTENTS (JERANIMO): BENOIT & ASSOCIATES

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

Brock Sheridan BUSINESS MANAGER

Patrick Vinzant ART DIRECTOR

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Beverly Kalberkamp CORRESPONDENTS

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

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

Caroline T. Davis

© THE FLORIDA HORSE (ISSN 0090-967X) is published monthly except July by THE FLORIDA HORSE, INC., 801 SW 60th Ave., Ocala, Florida 34474, including the annual Statistical Review in February. Opinions expressed herein are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect those of Florida Equine Publications or the Florida Thoroughbred Breedersʼ and Ownersʼ Association. Publication of any material originating herein is expressly forbidden without first obtaining written permission from THE FLORIDA HORSE©.

Statistics in the publication relating to results of racing in North America are compiled from data generated by Daily Racing Form, Equibase, Bloodstock Research Information Services, and The Jockey Club Information Systems Inc., the copyright owners of said data. Reproduction is prohibited. A dvertisin g co py d ead lin e 5th o f mo n th p recedin g p ub licatio n. Su bscrip tio ns and ch ang e of add ress: Please m ail to – Circulation s D ep artment. T HE FL ORIDA H ORS E, 801 SW 60th Ave., O cala, Florida 34474.

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Lonny T. Powell THE FLORIDA HORSE • AUGUST 2012 5

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the Brock talk

Brock Sheridan

Editor-in-Chief Florida Equine Publications

The Numbers Don’t Lie f one subscribes to the old adage that says numbers ford Manor Stakes (G3) winner Circle Unbroken to the don’t lie, then Florida-breds had notable success at list of Florida-bred graded stakes winners. In total, June North American thoroughbred race tracks during the featured 33 graded stakes around the continent of which four (12.1%) were won by those bred in Florida. months of June and July. July was even more impressive for Florida-breds. DurThat could be apparent to even the casual observer of such things as runners from the Sunshine State won two ing the month there were 23 Florida-bred stakes winners Grade 1 races in each month with Ron the Greek winning that amounted to 14.1% of all non-restricted and black-type the Stephen Foster at Churchill Downs on Jun. 16 and stakes in North America in July. Of the 57 graded stakes Jeranimo taking the Shoemaker Mile at Betfair Holly- during the month, 13 were won by Florida-breds which wood Park two weeks later. Then Musical Romance won amounts to a whopping 22.8%—more than double what the Princess Rooney Stakes at Calder Casino and Race would be expected by less than 10% of the population. There were ten Grade 1 stakes in July so the victories Course and Turbo Compressor took the United Nations by Musical Romance in the Princess Rooney and Turbo Stakes at Monmouth Park , both on July 7. A closer look at other stakes results and breeding sta- Compressor calculate to 20%—again more than double the expectation. tistics however, accentuates the point even further. The biggest day of the month for Florida-breds was by To determine what percentage of thoroughbred runners during those two months were bred in Florida, we far Jul. 7 when Musical Romance and Turbo Compressor first assume that the vast majority of thoroughbreds at the took the headlines with their Grade 1 tallies. But the day also featured graded stakes winners tracks today fall somewhere in the , it is Mucho Macho Man (Suburban two to 5-year-old age group. Using difficult to argue that Handicap [G2]), Emma’s Encore that assumption and combining it with the annual Florida Registered Florida-bred thoroughbreds (Victory Ride Stakes [G3]), Fort Loudon (Carry Back Stakes [G3]) Foal Crop as published by the continue to excel above Jockey Club Fact Book, we see that their counterparts foaled and Another Romance (Azalea Stakes [G3])—all bred in Florida. when those age groups were foaled, in other states. Yes it is without question that staFlorida babies made up 11.8% of the North American crop in 2007, 10.2% in 2008, 9.2% in tistics can be calculated, twisted and molded to say just 2009 and 7.9% in 2010 (second in numbers and percent- about anything the author, mathematician or marketer would like to convey. But these numbers are all very much ages to only Kentucky.) Although the vast majority of thoroughbreds racing straight forward. Because of overnight stakes that may today are ages two through four, we’ll stay conservative have been written late or perhaps restricted stakes were on the high side and average those four foal crop numbers not found, it is only fair to disclose that there may be slight to assume Florida-breds make up approximately 9.8% of variances in the above calculations, but it would be diffithe population at tracks today. The actual percentage of cult to manipulate them too much one way or the other Florida-breds currently racing is almost certainly lower, because of the simplicity of the calculations. Regardless, it is difficult to argue that Florida-bred but to make a point, we’ll stay conservative and keep the thoroughbreds continue to excel above their counterparts number artificially high. During the month of June, Florida-breds won 19 stakes foaled in other states. Not to say that Florida can compete races. Using Daily Racing Form as a source with an effort with Kentucky on volume as the Bluegrass State produces to delete all restricted and non-black type stakes, those 19 approximately 33% of the thoroughbreds in North Amerstakes winners made up nearly 14% percent of all stakes ica. But when it comes to the probability of a given Florida-bred becoming a stakes winner compared to those winners in North America during the month of June. Looking at graded stakes during the month of June, we foaled in other states—at least in June and July of this add Vagrancy Handicap (G2) winner CC’s Pal and Bash- year—the numbers don’t lie. ■

Regardless

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Florida FOCUS Compiled by Brock Sheridan CC’s Pal Gets Graded Stakes Win in Vagrancy Grade 2 Distaff at Aqueduct in April. “I said, ‘I can’t believe she’s going to run second again in a graded race,’” said winning owner Eric Fein. “I wanted that graded win for her. The jock turned her head a little bit, she saw the other horse, she fights. She’s proven she’s got more heart than anybody.” Second one week ago at Parx RacFlorida-bred CCʼs Pal ing in the My Juliet, in which Nicole H Beth Bayer of Ocala. finished fourth, C C’s Pal is now 8-7-6 from It was the first graded stakes victory for 29 career starts. No worse than third in five the 5-year-old daughter of Alex’s Pal, who last starts this year, including a victory in the fall finished third in the Grade 2 Go for Wand Ladies Handicap at Aqueduct on New Year’s at Aqueduct Racetrack in November, third in Day, C C’s Pal won $120,000 to increase her the Grade 2 Barbara Fritchie at Laurel Park earnings to $663,086 and returned $5.70 for a in February, and second to It’s Tricky in the $2 win bet as the 9-5 second choice. COGLIANESE PHOTO

Fighting back along the rail after losing the lead in deep stretch, Floridabred C C’s Pal put away favored Nicole H in the final jumps to take the 62nd running of the Grade 2, $200,000 Vagrancy Handicap at Belmont Park by a neck on Jun. 2. Sent right to the front by jockey Junior Alvarado, C C’s Pal was able to set unpressured fractions of 23.55 seconds for the opening quarter-mile and 47.07 for the half before Nicole H began moving up on the turn. Once straightened for home, Nicole H charged up on the outside and stuck a nose in front with 110 yards to go, only to relinquish the lead to the game C C’s Pal in the final strides. Her winning time for the 6½ furlongs was 1:16.10. She was bred in Florida by

Becausei’mworthit is Good Value in Cool Air Becausei’mworthit, making her seasonal debut off a nearly sixmonth break, led every step of the way en route to victory in the offthe-turf running of the $55,000 Cool Air Stakes at Calder Casino & Race Course on Jun. 18, prevailing by two lengths while covering the five-furlong distance in :58.22. A Florida homebred owned by Ups & Downs Farms of Citra, Becausei’mworthit is by Indian Express, who stands at Ups & Downs Farms. “If they were going to let me go easy, the plan was to go to the front and just take it from there,” winning rider Jose Lopez said.

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Florida-bred Becauseiʼmworthit

8 THE FLORIDA HORSE • AUGUST 2012

“And that’s what she did. I kept waiting to see if any of the other horses were going to come after me, but they never did. And she had enough left for the end.” Ridden aggressively from post two by Lopez, Becausei’mworthit was never intent on merely rationing her early speed as the filly quickly opened up a clear lead on her rivals, running opening splits in a rather swift :21.81 and :45.20. Becausei’mworthit entered the stretch with a six-length advantage on her rivals, and while Nakano made some noise late when running down the lane with purpose, the outcome was never in peril, as Lopez got just enough out of his filly to hold sway through the wire. Trained by Monte Thomas, Becausei’mworthit returned $10.40, $5.40, and $3.80 for her front-running victory. Nakano paid $3.40 and $2.80 for second, while Leopard Rock returned $3.40 when 1¾ lengths back in third. Completing the order of finish was Indulgence, Many Crowns, Commence Firing, and More Than Speed. With her victory in the Cool Air, Becausei’mworthit has now won four of 11 starts and has lifetime earnings of $90,313. The win was the first stakes triumph for the daughter of Indian Express, who was already stakes-placed having finished third in last year’s running of the Cool Air.

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Wild About Tiffany Crazy Good in U Can Do It D’Honorable One Dead Heats in Washington isher Brady’s Kat, a 40-to-1 long shot ridden by Javier Matias, and a $6.20 show payoff. Makors Finale, whose previous seven races were all at Turf Paradise, sprinted clear immediately and set fractions of :22.22 and :44.31, but D’honorable One challenged outside Makors Finale into the stretch, and the two colts hooked up in a virtual match race to the wire. D’honorable One appeared to have a slight lead past mid-stretch, but Makors Finale dug back in and got back to even terms at the finish. D’honorable One and Makors Finale earned $18,750 apiece for their efforts. A 3-year-old Florida-bred by D’wildcat, D’honorable One has compiled a 4-0-2 record in six career starts with earnings of $67,815. The Florida-bred Auburn Handicap was his first DʼHonorable One (outside) stakes victory.

EMERALD DOWNS PHOTO

For only the second time in 17 seasons and 571 races, a stakes event at Emerald Downs in Auburn, Wash., wound up in a dead-heat for first place. D’honorable One, the 11-to-10 betting favorite ridden by Leslie Mawing, and Makors Finale, the 9-to-2 third choice ridden by Gallyn Mitchell, hit the finish line together, both running 6½ furlongs in a stakes record 1:14.53 on a fast track. It was three lengths back to third-place fin-

David and Teresa Palmer’s homebred Wild Bout Tiffany, who ran for a $25,000 claiming price this March at Gulfstream Park, was a surprise winner of the $75,000 U Can Do It Handicap at Calder Casino & Race Course Jun. 9, leading throughout to win by a neck while covering six furlongs in 1:11.27. “The instructions were to sit still and wait as much as I could,” winning rider Manoel Cruz said. “But she broke the gate like she wanted to go, and she put like two or three lengths on them, which I was happy to take. I took a hold and nobody wanted to go with me.” Wild Bout Tiffany cut fractions of :21.98 and :45.36, and was resilient through the wire to hold off threatening late challenges from both Florida-bred Flying Trip and Bessie M. “She started to get a little tired at the end, but we got there,” Cruz said. Wild Bout Tiffany returned $29.00, $10.40, and $7.40 for the win, the second

LIZ LAMONT PHOTO

Jacks or Better Farm, Inc.’s homebred Fort Loudon, already a four-time stakes winner at Calder Casino and Race Course, again dominated a field of overmatched rivals to win the $75,000 Unbridled Stakes by 3¾ lengths while stopping the six-furlong timer in 1:10.59 on Summit Preview Day June 9. Ridden for the first time in nearly a year by jockey Fernando Jara, Fort Loudon was always alert through the early stages of the Unbridled, tracking the early leader Florida-bred Hello Prince from third through an opening quarter-mile that went in :22. As the sophomore sprinters journeyed down the backstretch, Fort Loudon quickly sprung to the front, grabbing a lead that he would never relinquish through a half-mile split of :45.53. The colt then opened up a clear lead on his beaten foes, and coasted under the wire a comfortable winner. “He’s not as mature as he is going to be,” winning trainer Stanley Gold said. “But right now I see him gaining weight and getting bigger and doing everything right, so hopefully we’ll go on and have a big second half of the year.” Fort Loudon has now prevailed in six of 13 starts. The son of Journeyman Stud stallion Awesome of Course has a lifetime bankroll of Florida-bred Fort Loudon $475,485.

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Fort Loudon Florida-bred Wild About Tiffany

Summit Preview Day stakes victory for trainer Bill Kaplan. Flying Trip paid $5.20 and $3.20 when second, while Bessie M brought back $14.00 for third. Wild Bout Tiffany has now prevailed in seven of 19 starts. The daughter of Journeyman Stud stallion Wildcat Heir boosted her lifetime bankroll to $212,120. The U Can Do It Handicap is the local prep for the Grade 1 Princess Rooney, the centerpiece event on the July 7 Summit of Speed program. No U Can Do It Handicap winner has returned to win the Princess Rooney, although Kaplan’s Musical Romance, who won the U Can Do It last year, was beaten a nose in the Princess Rooney. THE FLORIDA HORSE • AUGUST 2012 9

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Another Romance Leaves The Leave Me Alone

Florida FOCUS Turbulent Descent Rises in Desert only to see the former pull away and win the Desert Stormer by a length and onequarter. After the race Puype was pleased to see his filly back at the level for which he had hoped she would return. “You want to see her come back to form because she’s a brilliant filly. Her campaign took its toll with four travel trips,” he said. “Believe me when I tell you, the track was very hard at Santa Anita the day she ran (La Brea Stakes Dec. 31). She’s very partial to synthetic tracks and I’m Florida-bred Turbulent Descent just happy to have vorite in the Desert Stormer at 3-2, Turbu- her back in form.” The final time for the six furlongs was lent Descent would not disappoint her supporters and avenged her late season 1:09.25. The two other Grade I winners in the losses to those three foes, again with Desert Stormer failed to fire. Switch, David Flores in the saddle. Like the fans that supported Turbulent who captured the 2010 La Brea and Descent at the betting windows, Flores 2011 Santa Monica, was fourth, a nose too thought confident going into the behind Mildly Offensive, while Teddy’s Desert Stormer. “She’s been working Promise, the 2011 La Brea upsetter, was very, very well,” Flores said. “The race fifth, defeating only Grade II winner came up perfect for us. I was comfort- Great Hot able the whole way. The outside post worked out very well for her. She showed what she’s made of today. I’m so confident in her.” The Desert Stormer started off similar to the Breeders’ Cup for Flores and Turbulent Descent as they swerved into Great Hot at the start. But less ground was lost and they quickly became comfortable stalking pacesetters Izzy Rules and Mildly Offensive from the outside. After fractions of :21.92, :44.82 and :56.63, Turbulent Descent and Izzy Rules hooked up at the top of the stretch BENOIT & ASSOCIATES PHOTO

Turbulent Descent returned to the races in the $70,000 Desert Stormer Handicap at Betfair Hollywood Park Jun. 17 at six furlongs. It was her first start of the year and again, she faced Teddy’s Promise, Switch and Great Hot. Sent off as the fa-

10 THE FLORIDA HORSE • AUGUST 2012

With Eclipse Award winner Musical Romance on the sidelines awaiting the Grade 1 Princess Rooney, the appropriately named Another Romance, owned by Lewis Pell, Michael Eigner, and Pinnacle Racing and trained by Bill Kaplan, emulated her acclaimed stablemate when scoring a Summit Preview Day victory in the $75,000 Leave Me Alone Stakes, prevailing by a neck over pacesetter fellow Florida-bred Citizen Advocate while running the six-furlong distance in 1:11.24. Ridden by Luca Panici, Another Romance was never aggressive out of the gate, settling quite comfortably near the back of the field while spying the speedy Citizen Advocate, who ran on a clear lead through opening splits of :21.40 and :44.62. “There was a lot of speed in the race, so I wasn’t worried too much about the first part,” Panici said. “My filly needs some time to warm up, so I just took her back and waited.” As the field of sophomore fillies moved through the turn,Another Romance began passing rivals,but the task ahead still appeared herculean as Citizen Advocate held a five-length advantage in mid-stretch.But as CitizenAdvocate started to grow weary, Another Romance remained determined,pulling on even terms with that rival in the final yards before edging past in the shadow of the wire to prevail. “At the three-eighths I wanted to take the easiest way so I didn’t lose ground but didn’t ask her to put out too much,” Panici said.“I was able to do that, and then we she got in the clear, she fired.” “I wasn’t sure we had it until the very end,” Kaplan said.“But she showed me that she is as good as we thought she was in the beginning.” It was four lengths back to Yara in third. With her Leave Me Alone Stakes victory, Another Romance improved her lifetime record to three wins from 14 starts, with $141,915 in earnings. The daughter of Journeyman Stud stallion Saint Anddan was bred in Florida by Beverley Tortora and Dr. Alice Russell. LIZ LAMONT PHOTO

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Florida-bred Another Romance

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Turbo Compressor

Wicked Mizz joined a slew of other Florida-breds to hit the winner’s circle on the weekend of June 9, taking the $75,500 Go For Wand Stakes at Delaware Park in Willmington, Del., Saturday. Bred in Florida by Yvonne Cordova and Lolita Raquiza’s Y-Lo Racing Stable of Lancaster, Ca., Wicked Mizz was making only her fourth career start and trying for her second win. Her first win came against maiden special weight company at Parx Racing in February. In her previous start on Mar. 14 at Aqueduct, Wicked Mizz set the pace but could only manage a runner-up performance behind winner Zucchini Flower in the $75,000 Limit Stakes. This time the 3-yearold filly kept off the early pace-setters who set fractions of :23.53, :47.39 and 1:12.06 but stayed close enough to take the lead after six furlongs of the one mile and 70yard race. In the last quarter-mile down the stretch, the grey/roan daughter of Mizzen Mast drew clear of second-place finisher Ageless to win by two and one-quarter lengths with jockey Jeremy Rose aboard. Wicked Mizz is trained by Anthony Dutrow for Green Lantern Stables LLC of Versailles, Ky. The final time of the race was 1:42.32. Let go as the sixth choice in the wagering with 7-1 odds, Wicked Mizz paid $16.20, $9.40 and $4.80 while Ageless paid $7.00 and $4.40. And Why Not finished third and paid $4.20 to show. The $1 exacta returned a nice $73.10 as 3-1 favorite Lady Cohiba finished out of the money.

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Wicked in the Wand In Delaware

Hungry in second and Fair Grounds Handi- ing, where he sold for $22,000. Todd cap (G3) victor Smart Bid in third. Little Pletcher trains Turbo Compressor. The bay son of Halo’s Image has now would change in that order as Florida’s Turbo Compressor and Bravo set slow fractions of won six of 13 career starts with additional :24.34, :49.78 and 1:14.35 and when they stakes win in the $150,000 Car G. Rose turned for home, the team again excelled Classic Handicap at Calder and the $76,000 away from the pack. Smart Bid and Humble Curlin Stakes at Saratoga, both last year. and Hungry fell back to finish fourth and The $282,000 winner’s check in the Coloeighth respectively as Turbo Compressor hit the wire a length and one-quarter ahead of last year Virginia Derby (G2) winner Air Support in second and Rahystrada in third. Final time was 1:55.15 It was third win in the last five starts for Turbo Compressor, Florida-bred Turbo Compressor who was bred in Florida by Bridlewood Farm of Ocala and nial will boost the career earnings of Turbo currently races for owners P and G Stables Compressor to $620,960. As the favorite, and Off the Hook Partners LLC of New Turbo Compressor paid $7.00 for a $2 win York City. Turbo Compressor is also a grad- ticket and $4.40 to place and $4.00 to show. uate of the Ocala Breeders’ Sales Company Air Support paid $5.20 and $3.20. The $2 2010 April Sale of Two-Year-Olds in Train- exacta paid $37.00.

It’s Me Mom Wins Satin and Lace After a disappointing fifth-place in the Skipat Stakes at Pimlico Race Course on the Preakness undercard in May, the popular Florida-bred mare It’s Me Mom bounced back strong to win the $100,000 Satin and Lace Stakes at Prisque Isle Downs Jun. 19. Sent right to the lead by jockey Willie Martinez, It’s Me Mom pulled away from the field down the backstretch before going on to win the 51⁄2 furlong race by three and onehalf lengths. Sweet Cassiopeia was second ahead of Dr. Diamonds Prize in Third. It’s Me Mom was timed in 1:03.14 over the Tapeta surface and returned $5.40 to win. It’s Me Mom was bred in the Sunshine State by Thomas Bosch and Jean M. Bosch of Holiday Florida and she is by the stallion Put It Back, who stands at Bridlewood Farm in Ocala, Florida.

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Sent off as the favorite at 5-2 in the Jun. 16 Colonial Turf Cup at Colonial Downs in New Kent, Va., Turbo Compressor broke well from post six and had the lead shortly after the start. Jockey Joe Bravo and Turbo Compressor galloped around the expansive Virginia turf course a length ahead of Commonweath Turf (G3) winner Humble and

Florida-bred Itʼs Me Mom

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Florida FOCUS continues on pages 57, 59 Callmethesqueeze Keeps Travelin’ at Calder

Florida-bred Callmethesqueeze

to get up for second after breaking slow then being steadied at the start of the Hollywood Wildcat. Catch That Kitten hung on to finish fourth. Pleasant Heiress tired to finish last in the field of nine and 8-5 favorite Speak Easy Gal was eighth. Final running time in the Hollywood Wildcat was 1:27.95. Trained by Manuel Azpura, Callmethesqueeze was winning her sixth career race from 18 starts with four seconds and a third. It was the third stakes victory for Callmethesqueeze who had previously won the $74,000 Judy’s Red Shoes Stakes in September and the $55,000 Sweettrickydancer Stakes on the Summit of Speed undercard last year in July, both at Calder. The bay filly by Awesome Again now has a career bankroll of $268,409. Callmethesqueeze returned $11.80 on a $2 win ticket and $5.80 to place and $3.60 to show. Brinca paid $14.60 and $7.80 while Trip for A.J. paid $3.40 to show. The $2 exCOADY PHOTO

Florida’s Callmethesqueeze closed the lid on a big day for Florida-breds at Calder Casino and Race Course Jul. 7 by winning the $100,000 Hollywood Wildcat Stakes at seven and one-half furlongs for older horses. Bred in Florida by Adena Springs and owner Gary Aiken of Dayton, Oh., Callmethesqueeze broke well under jockey Jose Alvarez then retreated back to fifth while Pleasant Heiress and Catch That Kitten set fractions of :23.00, :45.11 and 1:09.39. A half-mile from the finish Alvarez began to move on Callmethesqueeze and circled the field around the far turn to get the lead from Catch That Kitten just as they approached the eighth pole. At that point Callmethesqueeze began to pull away and eventually won by six lengths over a fast closing Brinca in second and Trip for A.J. in third. Brinca had made a good run

Good Lord Another Florida-bred took at stakes race at Charles Town Race Course Jun. 30 when Good Lord got the best of favorite Bandbox to win the $100,000 Wild and Wonderful Stakes at the West Virginia track. Those two broke on top in the seven furlong Wild and Wonderful with Good Lord getting to the rail and maintaining the lead for most of the way under a half-mile pace in :46.43.At the top of the stretch, Bandbox came up on Good Lord and looked to make a challenge, but the Good Lord was able to accelerate again and go onto a length and one-quarter victory, stopping the clock in a course record time of 1:22.68. Bred in Florida by Marilyn Fazio Seltzer of Golden Beach, Good Lord is by Greatness, who stands at Stonewall Farm Ocala. 12 THE FLORIDA HORSE • AUGUST 2012

Broken Dreams Bred in Florida by her owner, Leonard Lavin’s Glen Hill Farm in Ocala of which Craig Bernick is President and CEO, Broken Dreams went right to the front from post seven in the $93,110 Osunitas Stakes at Del Mar Jul. 21, was sent directly to the rail by jockey Garrett Gomez and began to Florida-bred Broken Dreams set a moderate but pressured pace of :24.11, :48.14 and 1:11.78 with 3-1 choice Halo Dolly racing just to her outside. Sent off as the fifth choice at 7-1 in the field of eight, few expected Broken Dreams to maintain the lead but she fought off Halo Dolly and the late charge of 2-1 favorite Byrony to win by a half-length. Byrony got up for second but by only a nose ahead of Halo Dolly in third. Florida-bred Briecat was fourth. Final time for the 11⁄16 mile Osunitas on grass was 1:41.71. Trained by Thomas F. Proctor, Broken Dreams was winning for the first time since taking the Senator Ken Maddy Stakes (G3) at Santa Anita in September. Since then she had finished 13th in the Breeders’ Cup Lady’s Turf Sprint (G2) at Churchill Downs in November. However, in three previous races this year Broken Dreams has shown steady improvement, finishing sixth in the $70,000 Lady’s Turf Sprint at Gulfstream Park in March before a fifth in the $75,000 Great Lady M at Hollywood in May. In her last race, Broken Dreams tried to go wire-towire in the $72,000 Redondo Beach Stakes at Hollywood Jun. 10, but was caught in the stretch and finished a close fourth, beaten just more than two lengths. BENOIT & ASSOCIATES PHOTO

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By MICHAEL COMPTON oe and Phyllis Bryant and their daughter Toni Jones are no strangers to success. Their familyowned Brylynn Farm has produced its share of stakes winners through the years, but on June 30, the Central Florida breeding operation recorded a new milestone as horses bred by Brylynn—Jeranimo and Circle Unbroken—each notched graded stakes wins on the same day. Jeranimo (at left in red silks) roared from off the pace to win the prestigious Shoemaker Mile Stakes (G1) on turf at Betfair Hollywood Park a little after 5 p.m. eastern time. Less than four hours later, Circle Unbroken drove to a one-length score in the Bashford Manor Stakes (G3) under the lights at Churchill Downs. Toni Jones, Joe and Phyllis’ daughter, said she knew the horses were running that day, but hadn’t even thought about both of them possibly winning their respective races.

Rare Double graded stakes wins for Central Florida’s Brylynn Farm

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“That was the first time that happened to us,” said Jones. “What a great feeling. It was one of those especially lucky days. I’ll never forget it.” Jeranimo, owned by B.J. Wright and trained by Michael Pender, notched his first stakes victory of the season in the Shoemaker. Considered among the top tier of West Coast turf milers even before the Shoemaker, Jeranimo had finished second in the San Francisco Mile (G3) at Golden Gate Fields in his previous start. He finished fourth, beaten less than two lengths in the Kilroe Mile (G1) at Santa Anita in March and was second in the San Gabriel Stakes (G2) in January to begin his 2012 campaign. In the Shoemaker, Jeranimo trailed for most of the trip. He got quick early fractions to chase courTHE FLORIDA HORSE • AUGUST 2012 15

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tesy of fellow Sunshine State product Little Mike, who carved out splits of :23.59, :46.40 and 1:09.81 for six furlongs in his West Coast debut for trainer Dale Romans. Fast fractions were the only help Jeranimo and jockey Garrett Gomez needed. The recipient of a patient ride from Gomez, Jeranimo simply engulfed the leaders in deep stretch, crossing the wire 1 ¼ lengths in front of Suggestive Boy (ARG) and a game Little Mike in third. Jeranimo covered the one-mile distance in 1:33.97. “This is a hard trying horse,” said Gomez. “He and I get along pretty well. We had a good trip. We just wound him up and made one little late run with him. It was the right kind of race to do that. He’s been training really well. He actually ran a winning race last time and just had a little bad luck. I just let him find himself early on in the race and he came home like I thought he would.’’ Jeranimo became Florida’s latest millionaire with the triumph. The $180,000 winner’s share of the $300,000 purse boosted Jeranimo’s career bankroll to $1,068,400. As a Breeders’ Cup “Win andYou’re In” race, the Shoemaker score gave Jeranimo an automatic berth in the Breeders’ Cup Mile (G1) Nov. 3 at Santa Anita. Owner B.J. Wright was thrilled following the Shoemaker and he is excited about his charge’s prospects in the Breeders’ Cup. “We have the home-field advantage now,” Wright said. “And we have Gomez. It can’t get much better than that. “He’s just a great horse,” Wright added. “He’s had some rides where the jockey didn’t That was a big day for us. know him well, but Garrett seems My parents have seen their to ride him really well. We’re happy with this jockey.” horses in the Breeders’Cup, Jeranimo, a son of Congaree— and that’s what this game is all Jera, by Jeblar, finished 7th in last about. I’m thrilled for my paryear’s Breeders’ Cup Mile, beaten ents. They have put so much 5 ¾ lengths by Court Vision at Blueyesintherein to a win in the into the business. I’m glad that Churchill Downs. Prior to the Debutante Stakes (G3) for fillies. Breeders’ Cup, Jeranimo captured they are able to experience this Owned by Travis Morgeson V kind of success. the Oak Tree Mile (G2) over the LLC, Circle Unbroken is named —Joe and Phyllis Bryant’s for Simms’ close knit friends who same course that will host this daughter Toni Jones year’s Breeders’ Cup Mile. have been a support system during Two-year-old colt Circle Unbroken held off a late his multiple myeloma fight. Circle Unbroken earned charge from Positively to win the 111th running of the $66,034 for the win and remained perfect in two lifetime Bashford Manor Stakes, a key stakes race early in the sea- starts. He entered the Bashford Manor off an impressive son for promising juveniles. Circle Unbroken ran six fur- maiden score on June 17 at Churchill Downs. longs in 1:11.71 and was ridden by Jon Court for trainer The colt, by Broken Vow—Baldomera, by Doneraile Gary Simms. Court, was purchased at last year’s Keeneland SeptemThe victory proved especially sweet for Simms, who ber Yearling Sale for $92,000. has battled multiple myeloma for more than two years. It “It’s the second most I’ve ever paid for a horse,” Simms gave Simms a sweep of Churchill Downs’ graded stakes said. “I just loved the horse. I usually look for bargains, races for 2-year-olds. A week earlier, he had saddled but there was just something about this horse. He’s almost PALMER PHOTO

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a perfect specimen as far as conformation goes. He has a few little flaws, but not many. He had the perfect eye, attitude, and walk. He had everything I like in a horse.” Jeranimo and Circle Unbroken are the latest in a string of top-class stakes horses produced by the Bryants who acquired the Brylynn property in 1983 and opened the farm a couple of years later. Some of the other recent Florida-bred stakes winners to hail from the 100-acre property include Aikenite and Teaks North. In fact, Aikenite, Teaks North and Jeranimo all started on last year’s Breeders’ Cup program at Churchill Downs. “That was a big day for us,” said Jones. “My parents have seen their horses in the Breeders’ Cup, and that’s what this game is all about. It seems like it has taken forever, but I am so happy that it is happening now and they are able to see it all come around. I’m thrilled for my

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parents. They have put so much into the business. I’m glad that they are able to experience this kind of success. “My father, at age 82, is still a big part of the farm,” Jones added. “He gets here at 7 a.m. and doesn’t leave until the last horse is done for the day. I think he outworks all of us. It’s great to have him here.” The family sold Jera, Jeranimo’s dam, last November but still owns, Baldomera, the dam of Circle Unbroken. Having a precocious juvenile representing the farm who is undefeated at Churchill Downs seems like a license to dream. Jones admits the thought crosses her mind. “I have dreamed about this my entire life,” Jones said. “Growing up in the horse business you always think of winning stakes races. We have been lucky in the past, so absolutely having a horse like Circle Unbroken allows us to dream a little.” ■

Circle Unbroken on his way to a one-length victory in the Bashford Manor Stakes (G3) under the lights at Churchill Downs.

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has a leg up

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competition Florida...

the Best State for Business

FLORIDA THOROUGHBRED BREEDERS’ AND OWNERS’ ASSOCIATION Lonny T. Powell, CEO and Executive Vice President 801 SW 60th Ave. • Ocala, FL 34474 • 352-629-2160 Fax: 352-629-3603 • www.ftboa.com • info@ftboa.com

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From coast to coast, Florida’s tax-friendly, pro-business environment is poised and ready to attract new companies and create new employment opportunities. • No personal state income tax. • No individual capital gains tax. • National leader in veterinary and equine research. • Ranked third in the U.S. for number of horses and size of horse industry. • Horses are exempt from sales tax when purchased from their original breeder. • Feed and animal health items, along with other specific items, are also exempt. • Florida’s greenbelt exemption provides property tax breaks for Florida horse farms. • No tax on stallion seasons. • Physical climate allows for year-round training, racing, showing and business opportunities.

FLORIDA DEPT. OF AGRICULTURE AND CONSUMER SERVICES Adam H. Putnam, Commissioner 850-617-7341 • Fax 850-617-7331 e-mail: Christopher.denmark@freshfromflorida.com 407 S. Calhoun • 416 Mayo Building, Tallahassee, FL 32399

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JOE DIORIO PHOTOS

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Newlyweds Brandon Rice and Alexandra de Meric have enjoyed early success under their new RiceHorse Stables banner

By MICHAEL COMPTON s far as industry pedigrees go, they don’t come much more established than Brandon Rice and Alexandra de Meric of RiceHorse Stables. Both Rice and de Meric have deep roots in Florida’s Thoroughbred business. Brandon, son of Bryan and Holley Rice of Woodside Ranch and a grandson of Clyde and Jean Rice, is a third-generation horseman. Alexandra, better known as Ali, is a daughter of Nick and Jacqui de Meric of Manuden Farm. The young couple is odds-on to follow in the large footsteps of their respective families. Rice and de Meric knew each other as youngsters, but neither one ever imagined the life they have together these days. “Both of us grew up in Ocala. Ali was raised on the west side of town and I was raised on the east side,” said Rice. “As kids those were very different worlds. The sales ground at OBS was our only meeting place. Referring to me, her dad always said there was a flake of hay with legs walking their shedrow. My father always admired the cute little de Meric girl running around barn 12. “In high school, I asked her out on a date,” Brandon added. “She was involved in drama, so I went to her school plays and she went to my football games. We were supportive of each other. Eventually, things would fizzle out for no other reason than distance. It was a 45minute drive to her place.” Rice and de Meric have successfully bridged the distance gap that kept them separated for much of their childhood. Married at Manuden Farm in June, Brandon and

Ali have refurbished a home on Woodside Ranch near Ft. McCoy and in June at OBS consigned under the RiceHorse Stables banner for the first time. “It’s so natural for us,” said de Meric, who graduated from the University of Tampa. “We grew up in this business. It’s a natural progression.” Rice, a graduate of Florida State University and the Darley Flying Start program, concurs. “We both had invested in horses for years with our families,” he said. “The decision to go into business together just sounded like a fun endeavor.” Rice and de Meric launched their own pinhooking operation with a $12,000 budget in 2009. They acquired two yearlings—a Limehouse colt and a filly by During. Those initial two horses sold the following year at OBS with the Limehouse colt bringing $200,000 from Bob Feld, agent for Kevin Plank’s Sagamore Farm. The colt, a $7,000 purchase at the 2009 Fasig-Tipton Kentucky Fall Yearling Sale, worked a quarter in :20 4/5 at the OBS preview as a juvenile. “We made all the decisions every step of the way,” said de Meric. “His good breeze was so liberating. People came up to us and told us what a good job we did with him. It was very gratifying. We had offers before the sale, but we wanted to give everyone a shot and put him through the ring. My Mom and Dad had champagne at the barn at the end of the day. It was a big moment. We won’t forget it.” Named Humble and Hungry, the colt went on to win the Commonwealth Turf Stakes (G3) at Churchill

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Downs last November in Sagamore’s colors. He also fin- sale,” she said. “We literally had no money left. It was all ished third in the Hill Prince Stakes (G3) at Belmont hay, oats and water with our horses.” Their family names and reputations mean the world Park and the Hall of Fame Stakes (G2) at Saratoga and to them. Rice and de Meric are eager to live up to the second in this year’s Dixie Stakes (G2) at Pimlico. “We grew up in this business,” said de Meric. “For me, responsibility entrusted with being part of the next five months out of college we sold a horse for $200,000. generation but are equally excited about promoting I wanted to call all of my college professors. My papers their own sense of identity. “Both of us grew up around and speeches in college were about horses, galloping and breaking the horse business. Everyone’s reIt can be a challenge to sponse was always ‘really?’ So, work with your spouse. We’re horses,” said Rice. “Our parents made this shoe to fit us both. Our after Humble and Hungry sold, I both very talented. We someparents knew they loved the horse wanted to call them all and say ‘yes, times have different ideas of business instantly. They wanted us the horse business.’” Selling a homerun horse like how to get from point A to to know the industry completely Humble and Hungry right off the point B. As good as we are and then encouraged us to explore on our own. We both got away from bat has not changed the way Rice individually we are 10 times it and were introduced to other and de Meric approach the business. better together. things in finance and the business “Both sets of parents wanted us —Alexandra de Meric world. Being away, we realized how to understand the business early on,” said Rice. “Ali and I still buy horses modestly. We much we love and appreciate this lifestyle. There is somelaunched our operation understanding the value of a dol- thing special about the horse business.” Attitudes and ideals are often passed down from one lar from the very beginning thanks to our parents. We generation to the next. That is certainly the case with know what it’s like to struggle to pay the feed bills.” De Meric believes the sojourn through their first pub- valuable practices and belief systems associated with lic offering proved to be a tremendous learning experience. purchasing young Thoroughbreds. For Rice and de “It was make or break for us by the time we got to the Meric, blending their respective backgrounds has proved

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For Rice and de Meric, blending their respective backgrounds has proved most challenging in the yearling selection process.

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most challenging in the yearling selection process. “It was quite an education to enter a new camp and a new way of thinking,” admitted de Meric. “You have your own methods. My dad taught me how to look at horses. Then I crossed over into the Rice camp and it was a very different system. It has been a lot to learn but I think it makes us better. “It’s not hard to find horses we love,” she added.” It’s hard to find horses that meet our budget constraints and can provide us the value we are looking for. Once they are here with us on the farm, that’s the easy part. Settling on which horses to choose is the hard part. For every one we buy, we’ve done a lot of leg work on 60 others. “It can be a challenge to work with your spouse,” de Meric added. “We’re both very talented. We sometimes have different ideas of how to get from point A to point B. As good as we are individually we are 10 times better together.” Rice takes a similar view of managing their working relationship. “Our business either thrives or sinks with the horses we choose,” he said. “This has been the biggest thing to learn to work together. We blend what we both know and make the best decisions we can. “One of the finer lessons we have learned is you can’t lose respect for each other,” he added. “I know Ali is extremely good at showing horses at the sales. She has done it for numerous operations all around the world. I always need to see her in her best light there. Right from the very beginning, we have had disputes and disagreements, but we can gladly say we are stronger three years in. We’re getting better. The relationship and the business are going the right way.” Both Rice and de Meric are quick to give credit to their parents. “If it wasn’t for our parents stressing the importance of the purchasing process to us and honing our eyes, it would have been hopeless to have merged as two novices,” Rice said. “Plus, we do our homework. From the first sale of the year to the last horse in the last sale, you can find those horses that will develop. We are always looking.” Buyers of two-year-olds are in search of future winners. Owners with horses in training want the same thing. Rice and de Meric expect to deliver much more. Among the clients they have worked with are trainer Ken McPeek and New Mission Bloodstock.

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RiceHorse STABLES

Rice (above right and opposite page) and de Meric are optimistic and confident about engineering a business future.

“The mental burden of your financial future is right in front of you in this business and maintaining client relationships can be a lot of pressure,” said Rice. “We’re a young business with only so many clients. It’s tough to have bad news. Some horses just don’t make it to the level of everyone’s aspirations. We wear that pressure quite a bit. When a horse is sore we feel that emotionally.” In July, He’s So Fine, a 2-year-old colt by Purge that Rice and de Meric broke and trained for McPeek, captured his career debut at Belmont Park. In the colors of Susan McPeek’s Magdalena Racing, the chestnut colt won that five-furlong event impressively by 3¾ lengths after stalking the early pace. “He’s a nice horse,” Rice said of He’s So Fine.

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“He’s one that we were thinking would be a Saratogatype horse. We’re anxious to see what he becomes.” Jim McCartan and Willie Browne, successful pinhookers in Europe, are among the principals in New Mission Bloodstock. “It’s easy to work for clients that know a good horse and are able to supply our stable with nice horses,” Rice said of their relationship with New Mission Bloodstock. “Two years ago they bought at Keeneland September and wanted a yearling prospect for their endeavor in the U.S,” he said. “They picked out a War Front filly for $80,000 and we sold it for $275,000 last year at OBS April. It was our first client horse and first client

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sale horse as well. They came back the following year and this time they asked for our opinion and our short list. They purchased a Malibu Moon from our list for $85,000. We sold that one at OBS in June for $145,000. It wasn’t as wildly successful as the War Front. He was a May foal and needed a little time. Some insignificant issues led to him selling in June. It was right to wait for him. He needed time and we did right by the horse. He was good looking and ready to go.” Rice and de Meric’s international experience and connections abroad propel their business beyond the borders of Ocala. Rice was introduced to the horse business in other countries through Darley’s Flying Start Thoroughbred Management program where he studied with industry professionals in Ireland, England, Australia, New Zealand and Dubai. Back at home in the U.S., he worked for trainers D. Wayne Lukas and Todd Pletcher, as well as McPeek. De Meric spent summers galloping horses in Japan from 2007-2010 and has also worked in England, Ireland, France, Australia and New Zealand. She has worked with Pat Costello at Paramount Sales, Francis and Barbara Vanlangendonck of Summerfield Sales, Ted Voute, Dr. Masataki Iida of Chiyoda Farm and Arthur Hancock at Stone Farm. “We’re both well-traveled, “Rice said. “It has really helped us. We understand the markets people are coming from and training techniques and how it relates to us. It helps us better serve them.” With their first offering as RiceHorse Stables in the books and training graduates winning on the racetrack, Rice and de Meric are optimistic and confident about engineering a business future filled with possibilities. “We are so passionate about what we do,” said de Meric. “We could wear suits, sit in large towers all day and visit each other on weekends, but the farm is what we both love. We appreciate the space, the freedom, the horses. This is the life we want. It is what we know. It is natural to us. Traffic congestion and stiff collars is not us. Ocala is our home. “To remain humble and hungry is important to us,” she added. “We want to stay within our bounds. We want to take calculated risks and keep moving forward.” With their disciplined approach to the industry, discerning eyes for talented prospects and a supportive family behind them, Rice and de Meric’s star is certain to continue its rise. ■

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umer F

By BROCK SHERIDAN

lorida-bred Ron the Greek placed himself firmly among the early leaders in the race for Horse of theYear by winning his second Grade 1 stake of 2012 in the $437,200 Stephen Foster Handicap at Churchill Downs. Another milestone accomplished by Ron the Greek in winning the 11⁄8 mile race on the main track is that the $262,932 winner’s check pushed his career earnings to $1,112,597, allowing him to join the club of Floridabred millionaires. Bred in Florida by Jack T. Hammer of Miami Beach, Ron the Greek is still co-owned by Hammer with Nils Brous’ Brous Stable of New York City and Wachtel Stable owned by Adam Wachtel of Briarcliff

Lezcano may have had confidence, but he had to overcome some significant traffic early and never got the lead until the final strides of the Foster. Ron the Greek broke well from post five but just as the field approached the finish line for the first time, Wise Dan from the inside and Mission Impazible from the out - squeezed together in front of Ron the Greek, forcing Lezcano to stand up and back Ron the Greek out of the trouble. While Lone Star Derby (G3) winner Nates Mineshaft was setting the early pace with honest fractions of :23.66, :47.27 and 1:10.95, Ron the Greek was more than eight lengths behind with only two horses beat most of the way down the back stretch. Around the far turn, it appeared Ron the Greek was still far from a possible impact in the Foster, although moving on the rail at this time, he was still nine lengths behind

Florida-bred Ron the Greek keeps notching up milestones Manor N.Y. Ron the Greek is by the Florida stallion Full Mandate, who currently stands at Hartley/DeRenzo Thoroughbreds in Ocala. The victory was also significant for Ron the Greek’s trainer, Hall of Famer Bill Mott. One race earlier, the all-time leading trainer at Churchill Downs won the Grade 2 Fleur de Lis Handicap presented by Finlandia Vodka with Besilu Stables’ Royal Delta, the champion 3-year-old filly of 2011. With We started on [Ron the Greek] Ron the Greek, Mott notched pretty early, so we’ll probably give him his 664th career win at a break now and point for the Jockey Churchill Downs, but perClub Gold Cup (G1) and then the haps more notable was that it Breeders’Cup Classic. —trainer Bill Mott was his first win in the Stephen Foster, the meet’s marquee race for older horses on the main track. The Stephen Foster win also provides Ron the Greek with an automatic berth in the $5 million Breeders’ Cup Classic (G1) to be run at Santa Anita in California in November. After the race, winning jockey Jose Lezcano spoke of the win as relatively effortless. “Everything went right for me tonight,” Lezcano said. “The whole way I saw a hole on the rail and I thought I could get through. I asked and he gave me a great run.”

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April 14. Alternation finished fifth behind Rogue Romance in fourth in the Foster. Ron the Greek started the year finishing second to fellow Florida-bred Mucho Macho Man in the $400,000 Sunshine Millions Classic at Gulfstream Park Jan. 28. But it is the win in the Santa Anita Handicap (G1) Mar. 3 that Mott feels will be key for Ron the Greek later in the year. “Having won at 10 furlongs at Santa Anita, [The Breeders’Cup Classic invite with the Foster] was certainly on our minds,” Mott continued. “We started on [Ron the Greek] pretty early, so we’ll probably give him a break now and point for the Jockey Club Gold Cup (G1) and then the Breeders’Cup Classic. He might have a race before the Gold Cup, but I’m not sure where it would be.” Ron the Greek was let go at 9-1 odds in the Foster and returned $20.80, $6.40 and $5.40. With odds-on favorite Wise Dan, the exacta still paid a nice $57.20. ■

PALMER PHOTO

Nates Mineshaft, now leading by some two lengths over favorite Wise Dan. But the long Churchill Downs stretch was still left, although Nates Mineshaft looked strong until just inside the eighth-pole. At that point, the race was still between Nates Mineshaft and Wise Dan but by the time they reached the sixteenth-mile marker, Ron the Greek was making a big run along the rail. The three hit the wire together with Ron the Greek a neck in front of Wise Dan in second and Nates Mineshaft in third, another three-quarters of a length back. Final time was 1:50.51. After the race, Mott attributed the victory to the tempo of the race and the patience of his rider. “There was a good pace in here,” Mott said. “More than there was in the Oaklawn Handicap. Jose (Lezcano) did a great job and was able to find a seam on the rail.” In his last start, Ron the Greek was second behind Alternation in the Oaklawn Handicap (G2) in Arkansas

stones

ousMile

Winning the Stephen Foster increased Ron the Greekʼs earnings to $1,112,597.

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By BROCK SHERIDAN

here is the Gator nation, the Seminole nation, Dolphins nation and many more like them that help make up the fanatical sports scene that is Florida. Then there is the Grade 1 United Nations Stakes at Monmouth Park in Oceanport, New Jersey – another example of Florida sports dominance. Since Florida-bred Presious Passion won his two consecutive United Nations Stakes in 2008-’09; with the victory by Florida’s Turbo Compressor Jun. 7 and Teaks North winning the race last year, Florida-breds have now won four of the last five runnings of the $500,000, 13⁄8 mile turf event. Turbo Compressor in the lead at the Like Presious Passion before him, top of the stretch in the United nations Turbo Compressor broke on top and Stakes. jockey Joe Bravo quickly put him on the lead. Just as soon as they got to the front, they began to slow it down considerably as they set pedestrian-like fractions of :25.14, :49.97 and 1:15.08 while opening

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Joe Applebaum, Nerina Morales and Hernando Gutierrez of the P and G Stable celebrate the Win And Your In, Breeders' Cup Challenge Victory of Turbo Compressor with jockey Joe Bravo, after capturing top honors in the $500,000 United Nations Stakes.

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up approimately two-lengths on the field on seven. Around the far turn, Freud’s Honor tried to challenge but at the top of the stretch, Turbo Compressor had sprinted away and again had two-lengths on the vanguard turning for home. Freud’s Honor fell back but Air Support and Al Khalil made up the next wave of challengers but never got closer than the final winning margin of a length and three-quarters. Final time for the 13⁄8 miles was 2:12.88. “He really flew home,” winning trainer Todd Pletcher said. “He was able to lay down the fractions and that was just what we were looking for. He still came home in 22 [seconds] and change and that’s hard to do at a mile and three eighths. This horse is versatile; he’s won from one mile to a mile and three eighths, so we have a lot of options for him.” It was the second consecutive stake won by Pletcher and Bravo, who had taken the $200,000 Monmouth Cup Stakes (G2) at the New Jersey track a race earlier with Rule. Florida-bred Flat Out was second in that race.

Turbo Compressor, fresh off a win in the Colonial Cup three weeks ago, earned his seventh victory in 14 starts in the U.N. The $300,000 winner’s share of the purse boosted his lifetime bankroll to $920,960 for owners P and G Stable & Off the Hook LLC of New York City. The United Nations, a Breeders’ Cup ‘Win and You’re In’ race, provided Turbo Compressor with a free pass to the $3 million Breeders’ Cup Turf at Santa Anita on Nov. 3. Turbo Compressor was bred in Florida by Bridlewood Farm of Ocala and is also a graduate of the Ocala Breeders’ Sales Company 2010 April Sale of Two-Year-Olds in Training where he sold for $22,000. ■

He really flew home. He was able to “ lay down the fractions and that was just what we were looking for. This horse is versatile; he’s won from one mile to a mile and three eighths, so we have a lot of options for him. — trainer Todd Pletcher

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North American champion female sprinter, Musical Romance, wins the Princess Rooney

By BROCK SHERIDAN

usical Romance had several scores to settle in the $400,000 Princess

Rooney Handicap (G1) at Calder Casino and Race Course Saturday afternoon. Since winning the $1 million Breeders’ Cup Filly and

Mare Sprint (G1) at Churchill Downs in November and subsequently being named North American champion female sprinter of 2011 and Florida-bred Horse of the Year, the now 5-year-old mare has won just one of four starts – that being the Grade 2 Inside Information Stakes at Gulfstream Park in March. The Princess Rooney was the basis of a thorn that had also been in the craw of team Musical Romance – at least jockey Juan Leyva. It was not the 28th running of the race Saturday, but the 27th running of the Princess Rooney last year that had left a bad taste in his mouth, because it was last year when they lost the Princess Rooney by a neck to Sassy Sage. It wasn’t the only loss of the year for Musical Romance who fact won five of 14 of her starts last year. It wasn’t even their only loss at their home base of Calder. But the Princess Rooney is the only grade 1 race at the Miami Gardens, Fla., track and Leyva thought Musical Ro-

Musical Romance makes her move at the top of the stretch in the G1 Princess Rooney Handicap at Calder Race Course

mance deserved it. In fact, several others wanted the title for their local heroine too as Musical Romance went to the post in Saturday’s Princess Rooney as the favorite at just over even money. And she did not disappoint. Bred in Florida by Ocala Stud, Musical Romance ran along the rail and settled for stalking the pace set by Florida-bred Golden Mystery, who was some two lengths ahead of Wild About Tiffany, yet another Florida-bred in the Princess Rooney, COADY PHOTOS

as they went through fast fractions of :21.80, :45.10 and :57.81. Around the far

turn, jockey Juan Leyva took Musical Romance to the outside and captured Golden

Mystery inside the final 220 yards. Late running Nicole H rallied on the outside, THE FLORIDA HORSE • AUGUST 2012 33

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Romancing The Rooney but Musical Romance was not to be denied again in the Princess Rooney and went on to win by a halflength over her late challenger. Nakano also rallied to finish third, another two and three-quarters lengths behind Nicole H. “That was a really painful loss, missing by a head last year,” Leyva said following Saturday’s race. “It stuck with me all this time because I know she should have won, and because we lost

That was a really painful loss, missing by a head last “year. It stuck with me all this time because I know she should have won, and because we lost the race here at Calder, on our home track. So it feels so great right now, to win this race today. This was sweet redemption.

”

—jockey Juan Leyva

the race here at Calder, on our home track. So it feels so great right now, to win this race today. This was sweet redemption.” The Princess Rooney was the first win since the Inside Information for Musical Romance who had finished fourth in the Madison Stakes (G1) at

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Musical Romance with trainer Bill Kaplan and jockey Juan Leyva

Keeneland Race Course in Lexington, Ky., in April and second in the Humana Distaff (G1) at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Ky., on May 5 – both races won by Groupie Doll. It was also her 11th career victory from 38 career starts and the $233,120 winner’s check increased Musical Romance’s lifetime earnings to $1,627,695. “It didn’t bother me like it did Juan,” trainer Bill Kaplan said of the 2011 defeat in the Princess Rooney. “I think that’s because he was on the horse, he did everything right, and he just got beat. But after the race, I told Juan to forget about it; she ran a great race that day, and had she seen Sassy Image, she would have dug in and did like she did today when holding that other horse [Nicole H] off. “So there was no vindication for me today. It was just a great race, and we were able to keep her on the road to the Breeders’ Cup.” Kaplan indicated that Musical Romance’s path to this year’s Breeders’ Cup could include a start in the Grade 1 Ballerina at Saratoga on August 24 or the Grade 2 Presque Isle Masters, a race she won in 2011, at Presque Isle Downs on September 8. Musical Romance returned $4.20, $2.80, and $2.60 for the win. Nicole H paid $3.60 and $4.00 for second, while Nakano returned $8.00 when running on late for third. Golden Mystery faded to seventh while Wild About Tiffany was ninth. ■

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Memory Lane Down

By JO ANN GUIDRY In mid-1959, Ocala-based y Dear Girl became the second Florida-bred na- Meadowbrook Farm was sold to a tional champion when she was named the 1959 syndicate which included Joseph LaCroix. Later, champion 2-year-old filly. Needles, the 1955 LaCroix would become sole owner of Meadowbrook champion 2-year-old colt, had been the first Florida-bred Farm. At Bonnie Heath Farm, the first foals by champion Needles arrived. national champion. Carl G. Rose was once again Florida’s leading breeder by By Rough’n Tumble out of Iltis, by War Relic, My Dear Girl was bred by Ocala Stud Farms and owned by Frances number of Florida-bred winners with 38. Ocala Stud was A. Genter. It was the latter’s husband who named the cham- second with 29. On the year, Florida-breds had won or pion filly after his favorite way of addressing his wife, ‘Now placed in 34 open stakes races. Ten Florida-breds were asmy dear girl.’ Frances Genter and My Dear Girl also shared signed to the Experimental Free Handicap. At that year’s Florida Breeders the same birthday of February 17. My Dear Girl was bred by Sales Association’s 2-year-olds in In only the second start of her career, My Dear Girl was entered in the Ocala Stud Farms and owned by training sale at Hialeah Park, a Florida Breeders’ Stakes at Sunshine Frances A. Genter. It was the total of 55 horses sold for a gross of $292,200. The sales average Park and went off at odds of 179 to 5. latter’s husband who named the was $5,314. The sales topper was She bested the field of 25, winning the three-furlong event by two champion filly after his favorite Pio, a colt by Fly Away out of Sis Brier, who brought top price of lengths. She followed that with a fiveway of addressing his wife. $20,600. He was consigned by length victory in the Miss Chicago 1 Stakes, setting a track record of 1:03 ⁄5 for the five and a half Bonnie Heath Farm and Jack Dudley. James Bright, the pioneer of Florida racing and breeding, furlongs. With subsequent tallies in the Gardenia Stakes and Frizette Stakes, My Dear Girl brought her seasonal earnings to died at the age of 93. Elmo Shropshire, who had managed $192,622. She became the first Florida-bred filly to earn over Dickey Stables, and his wife Ethel were killed in an auto$100,000 and was named the year’s champion 2-year-old filly. mobile accident in Miami. ■ Thanks largely to My Dear Girl, her sire Rough’n Tumble was that year’s leading Florida sire with total progeny earnings of $260,496. He was the fourth-leading juvenile sire in the country, represented by My Dear Girl, Conestoga, Carrollton and Rough Fellow. Campaigned by the Genters, Rough’n Tumble (Free For All—Roused, by *Bull Dog) first stood at Ocala Stud in 1956. Joe O’Farrell had bought an interest in him in 1954, first standing him in Maryland for $250. In 1957, Rough’n Tumble went back to stand in Maryland before coming back for good to Florida. Now owned solely by Ocala Stud, he stood in 1959 for a stud fee of $1,000. Wedlock, also by Rough’n Tumble, became the first Florida-bred filly to win a classic race when she captured that season’s Kentucky Oaks. Wedlock won the first division of the 1959 Kentucky Oaks, while Florida-bred New Star finished fourth and Florida-bred Indian Maid turned in a runner-up performance in the second division.

FILE PHOTO

My Dear Girl (left) was the first Florida-bred filly to earn over $100,000.

THE FLORIDA HORSE • AUGUST 2012 35

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he Florida Thoroughbred Breedersʼ and Ownersʼ Association announced in April an agreement with Calder/Churchill Downs Inc. and the Florida Horsemenʼs Benevolent and Protective Association for this yearʼs Florida Stallion Stakes Series at Calder. The lucrative series for two-year-olds was created in 1982 to benefit the Florida Thoroughbred Breeding industry. The popular series features three legs—an open division and a fillies division—run in July, August and concluding in October for juveniles by Florida stallions registered with the FTBOA. The initial legs carry purses of $75,000 each for a total of $150,000. Purses are increased to $125,000 for the second legs, totaling $250,000. Purses for the series fi-

Rewarding Excellence The Florida Stallion Stakes at Calder Keeps on Rolling nale swell to $300,000 each for a $600,000 total. Including Nominator Awards and $5,000 FSS Supplements for fillies (15) and colts (15) totaling an estimated $85,000, the estimated purse payments total $1,160,000.

“

The FTBOA, FHBPA and Calder each contributed to the program.

I believe all parties involved recognize the importance of the Florida Stallion Stakes to Floridaʼs owners and breeders,” said Lonny Powell, FTBOA CEO and executive vice president. “The juvenile program at Calder is one of the strongest in the country year in and year out, and weʼre looking forward with great anticipation to this summerʼs renewal of the Florida Stallion Stakes Series. Iʼd like to thank the FHBPA, Calder and the members of my Racing Advisory Committee for assisting us in bringing some continuity and stability to the program. “The Florida Stallion Stakes have long been a tradition here at Calder that showcases our two-year-olds for the whole country,” FHBPA president Phil Combest said. “Many champions have come out of the series and we at the FHBPA are pleased that the track, breeders and horsemen came together to support an important cornerstone of South Florida racing.” The first legs of the series are slated for July 28. The two $75,000 races are the Desert Vixen Division for fillies and the Dr. Fager Division for colts. Both races will be run at six furlongs. The second legs—the $125,000 Susanʼs Girl Di36 THE FLORIDA HORSE • AUGUST 2012

”

Page 36

vision and the Affirmed Divisions will be run Aug. 25 during Calderʼs Juvenile Showcase program. The races will be contested at seven furlongs. The FSS finales are set for the Festival of the Sun card on Oct. 13. The series concludes with the $300,000 My Dear Girl Division and the $300,000 In Reality Division. Both races are at 1 1/16 miles. 2012 FLORIDA STALLION STAKES SERIES SCHEDULE JULY 28

Florida Stallion Stakes-$75,000 estimated Desert Vixen Division Florida Stallion Stakes-$75,000 estimated Dr. Fager Division

Florida Stallion Stakes $125,000 estimated Susanʼs Girl Division

AUG. 25

Florida Stallion Stakes $125,000 estimated Affirmed Division Florida Stallion Stakes $300,000 estimated My Dear Girl Division

OCT. 13

Florida Stallion Stakes $300,000 estimated In Reality Division

In recent years, Fred and Jane Breiʼs Jacks or Better Farm has dominated FSS proceedings. Fort Loudon capped off a three-race win streak last year when he won the In Reality Division while stablemate Awesome Belle won the My Dear Girl Division the same day. Both of those runners are sired by Journeyman Stud stallion Awesome of Course, as is Redbud Road, who annexed the Desert Vixen Division last year. The 2011 Florida Stallion Series also marked the third consecutive year that Jacks or Better Farm and trainer Stanley Gold swept either the open or fillies division of the series. They combined to win the fillies series in 2010 with Awesome Feather, also by Awesome of Course, and swept the open division in 2009 with Jackson Bend. Another recent notable sweep was Harold Queenʼs Big Drama, who swept the 2008 Florida Stallion Stakes Series. Big Drama was conditioned by David Fawkes. In addition to the FSS and the lucrative purses for Florida-bred juveniles, there are plenty of other substantial earning opportunities for Florida-breds during the Calder meet which runs through Aug. 31. The Tropical continued on page 43

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JIM LISA PHOTO

THE FLORIDA HORSE â&#x20AC;˘ AUGUST 2012 37

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FTBOA: THE VOICE OF FLORIDA’S THOROUGHBRED INDUSTRY

Since its inception, the Florida Thoroughbred Breedersʼ and Ownersʼ Association has been responsible for Florida-bred registration and administration and distribution of the industryʼs incentive awards program, which encourages individuals to breed, train and race Thoroughbreds in Florida. The FTBOA is dedicated to ensuring a prosperous business climate for the industry. With Floridaʼs low taxes and smart growth policies, basing a Thoroughbred operation in the Sunshine State makes perfect business sense. For more information, contact the FTBOA at (352) 629-2160.

2012 FLORIDA-BRED STAKES PROGRAM AT CALDER Date 5/12 5/12

SEX Fillies Open

AGE 3 Yo’s 3 Yo’s

DISTANCE 6 fur. 6 fur.

SURFACE PURSE Dirt 75,000 Dirt 75,000

RACE French Village In Summation

6 fur. 6 fur. 6 fur. 6 fur. 5 1/2 fur. 5 1/2 fur. 5 fur. 1m 70 yds. 1m 70 yds. 6Fur 6Fur 7 1/2 fur. 7 1/2 fur.

Dirt Dirt Dirt Dirt Dirt Dirt Turf Dirt Dirt Dirt Dirt Turf Turf

75,000 75,000 75,000 75,000 100,000 100,000 75,000 75,000 75,000 E. 75,000 E. 75,000 75,000 75,000

Unbridled Ponche Hdcp. U Can Do It H. Leave Me Alone J J’s Dream Frank Gomez Mem. Bob Umphrey (T) Sprint Three Ring El Kaiser Desert Vixen Dr. Fager Crystal Rail Naked Greed

7 fur. 7 fur. 1 mile 1 mile 5 fur. 5 fur.

Dirt Dirt Dirt Dirt Turf Turf

E.125,000 E.125,000 75,000 75,000 75,000 75,000

Definition FTBOA Supplement FSS 20,000 FTBOA FSS 20,000 FTBOA

Preview Summit of Speed 6/9 6/9 6/9 6/9 6/30 6/30 7/7 7/21 7/21 7/28 7/28 8/18 8/18

Open Open F&M Fillies Fillies Open Open Fillies Open Fillies Open Fillies Open

3 Yo’s 3 & Up 3 & Up 3 yo’s 2 Yo’s 2 Yo’s 3 & Up 3 Yo’s 3 Yo’s 2 Yo’s 2Yo’s 3 Yo’s 3 Yo’s

FS Pref FS Pref FSS FSS FSS FSS FSS FSS

10,000 FTBOA 10,000 FTBOA 10,000 FTBOA 10,000 FTBOA 45,000 FTBOA 45,000 FTBOA 20,000 FTBOA 20,000 FTBOA 20,000 FTBOA 20,000 FTBOA

Juvenile Showcase 8/25 8/25 8/25 8/25 8/25 8/25

Fillies Open Fillies Open Fillies Open

2 Yo’s 2 Yo’s 2 Yo’s 2 Yo’s 2 Yo’s 2 Yo’s

38 THE FLORIDA HORSE • AUGUST 2012

Susan’s Girl Affirmed Lindsay Frolic Seacliff Catcharisingstar Fasig Tipton (T) Dash

FSS FSS FS Pref FS Pref

20,000 FTBOA 20,000 FTBOA 20,000 FTBOA 20,000 FTBOA

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meet begins Sept. 1 and runs through Nov. 30 this year. New at Calder this year is a Starter Series, which offers a combined $200,000 in purse money along with a $5,000 bonus to the trainer of the points-leader at the completion of the series. The four-race series began in April and runs through May 26. It attracted a total of 74 nominations. “The Starter Series has generated a great deal of interest from our horsemen and weʼre thrilled with the positive response we have received,” Racing Secretary Mike Anifantis said. “We expect large and competitive fields for each of the four races.” The four-race series is restricted to 4-year-olds and up that have started for $20,000 or less in 2011 or 2012 and will be run at progressively longer distances while alternating between the main track and the turf course. Bisnath Parbhoo, the top trainer at the 2010-2011 Tropical Meet, leads the way with seven horses nominated to the Starter Series, six of which run in the silks of the 2011 Calder Meet leading owner Sherry Parbhoo. Two-time leading owner Frank C. Calabrese, winner of the 2011 and the 2010-11 Tropical titles, has five horses nominated to the Starter Series, three for trainer Kirk Ziadie and two for Nick Canani. Other trainers of note that have horses nominated to the Date

SEX

AGE

DISTANCE

Calder Starter Series include the northern-based outfits of Vickie Foley, Jamie Ness, Jason Servis, and Peter Walder, along with longtime Calder stalwarts Dave Fawkes, Bill Kaplan, and Stanley Gold. A $5,000 bonus will be awarded to the trainer of the horse that accumulates the most points throughout the series, with points allocated to the first six finishers in each race. THE CALDER STARTER SERIES SCHEDULE:

Seven Furlongs—Dirt

APRIL 14

One Mile—Turf

APRIL 28

One Mile and Seventy Yards—Dirt

MAY 12

One and One-Sixteenth Miles—Turf

MAY 26

FTBOA Racing/Stakes Committee: Brent Fernung, Chair, Phil Matthews, George Russell, Fred Brei, Lonny Powell

SURFACEPURSE

RACE

Definition

FTBOA Supplement

1 1/16 m. 1 1/16 m. 1m 70 yds. 1m 70 yds. 6 fur. 6 fur.

Turf Turf Dirt Dirt Dirt Dirt

Judy’s Red Shoes S. Needles Stakes Brave Raj Stakes Foolish Pleasure Stakes Cassidy S. Birdonthewire S.

FSS FSS FSS Pref FSS Pref FS Pref FS Pref

20,000 FTBOA 20,000 FTBOA 35,000 FTBOA 35,000 FTBOA 35,000 FTBOA 35,000 FTBOA

1 1/8 m. 1 m. 1 1/16 m. 1 1/16 m.

Turf 75,000 Turf 75,000 Dirt E.350,000 Dirt E.350,000

Tropical Derby Francis A. Genter My Dear Girl In Reality

FSS FSS

1 1/16 m. 1 1/16 m. 7 fur. 7 fur. 6 fur. 1 1/8 m. 1 1/16 m. 1 1/8 m.

Turf Turf Dirt Dirt Dirt Turf Dirt Dirt

John Franks Juvenile Fillies Turf Arthur I. Appleton Juvenile Turf Joe O Farrell Juvenile Fillies Jack Price Juvenile Jack Dudley Sprint H. Bonnie Heath Turf Cup Elmer Heubeck Distaff H. Carl G. Rose Classic

State State State State State State State State

Preview Festival of the Sun 9/15 9/15 9/15 9/15 9/29 9/29

Fillies Open Fillies Open Fillies Open

3 Yo’s 3 Yo’s 2 Yo’s 2 Yo’s 2 Yo’s 2 Yo’s

75,000 75,000 100,000 100,000 100,000 100,000

Festival of the Sun 10/13 10/13 10/13 10/13

Open Fillies Fillies Open

3 Yo’s 3 Yo’s 2 Yo’s 2 Yo’s

10,000 FTBOA 10,000 FTBOA

Florida Million 11/10 Fillies 2 Yo’s 11/10 Open 2 Yo’s 11/10 Fillies 2 Yo’s 11/10 Open 2 Yo’s 11/10 Open 3 & Up 11/10 Open 3 & Up 11/10 F & M 3 & Up 11/10 Open 3 & Up FTBOA_DeptAgtext

100,000 100,000 125,000 125,000 125,000 125,000 150,000 150,000

FLORIDA DEPT. OF AGRICULTURE AND CONSUMER SERVICES Adam H. Putnam, Commissioner • 850-617-7341 • Fax 850-617-7331 e-mail: Christopher.denmark@freshfromflorida.com 407 S. Calhoun • 416 Mayo Building, Tallahassee, FL 32399

50,000 FTBOA 50,000 FTBOA 50,000 FTBOA 50,000 FTBOA 50,000 FTBOA 50,000 FTBOA 50,000 FTBOA 50,000

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Following are the “FTBOA Chase to the Championship ” Point Standings through July 25, 2012. Horse Two-Year-Old Colt/Gelding Circle Unbroken (Broken Vow) - 3 Handsome Jack (Bring The Heat) - 3 Onetwentyeight (Discreet Cat) - 2 Two T's At Two B (Untuttable) - 2

Breeder

Owner

Trainer

Brylynn Farm Inc Wesley Ward Ocala Stud Gilbert G Campbell

Travis Morgeson V, LLC Wesley Ward Repole Stable Gilbert G Campbell

Gary W Simms Wesley Ward Todd Pletcher Kathleen O'Connell

Tanourin Stable

Rodolfo Garcia

Jacks or Better Farm Inc. Stonecliff Farm Sabrina Plumley & Harold J. Plumley Mr. & Mrs. Samuel H. Rogers Jr. Chad R. Schumer & Nancy Sexton

Jacks or Better Farm Inc Klaravich Stables Inc & William H Lawrence Dennis Manning GDS Racing Stable Mike Tarp

Stanley Gold Teresa Pompay Dennis Manning Todd Pletcher Dale Romans

Bridlewood Farm Juvenile Diaz Beverley Tortora & Dr. Alice Russell Brambly Lane Farm & Steve Dwoskin

Kaleem Shah Inc. Steven Ciccarone Lewis Pell, Michael Eigner & Pinnacle Racing Stable Et al Peras International

Bob Baffert Michelle Nihei William Kaplan Jose Garoffalo

Brous Stable, Wachtel Stable & Jack T. Hammer Priscilla Vaccarezza Robert V. LaPenta & Fred J. Brei B J Wright

William Mott Dale Romans Nicholas Zito Michael Pender

Pinnacle Racing Stables & William A Kaplan Robert Smithen Eric Fein Estate of Gail Gee, Mark Hoffman & Earl Trostrud, Jr.

William A Kaplan Brian Lynch Richard Dutrow Jr Shirley K Girten-

Two-Year-Old Filly Salamera (Successful Appeal) - 2

Three-Year-Old Colt/Gelding Fort Loudon (Awesome of Course) - 7 Currency Swap (High Cotton) - 5 Crafty Unicorn (Friends Lake) - 3 Star Channel (English Channel) - 3 Tarpy's Goal (High Cotton) - 3

Three-Year-Old Filly Eden's Moon (Malibu Moon) - 23 Regalo Mia (Sligo Bay) - 6 Another Romance (Saint Anddan) - 5 Yara (Put It Back) - 5

Older Male (Four-Year-Olds and up Colt/Gelding) Ron the Greek (Full Mandate) - 35 Little Mike (Spanish Steps) - 23 Jackson Bend (Hear No Evil) - 20 Jeranimo (Congaree) - 20

Jack T. Hammer Carlo E Vaccarezza Jacks or Better Farm Inc. Brylynn Farm Inc

Older Female (Four-Year-Olds and up Filly/Mare) Musical Romance (Concorde's Tune) - 30 Bay to Bay (Sligo Bay) - 13 C C's Pal (Alex's Pal) - 13 Hooh Why (Cloud Hopping) - 10 Drake/Michael L Reavis

Ocala Stud Adena Springs Beth Bayer Gail Gee

Male Sprint (Three-Year-Olds and up Colt/Gelding, race distances one mile and less) Jackson Bend (Hear No Evil) - 20 Jeranimo (Congaree) - 17 Doubles Partner (Rock Hard Ten) - 8

Jacks or Better Farm Inc. Brylynn Farm Inc Arthur I. Appleton

Robert V. LaPenta & Fred J. Brei B J Wright WinStar Farm LLC

Nicholas Zito Michael Pender Todd Pletcher

Female Sprint (Three-Year-Olds and up Filly/Mare, race distances one mile and less) Musical Romance (Concorde's Tune) - 30 Eden's Moon (Malibu Moon) - 20 C C's Pal (Alex's Pal) - 11

Ocala Stud Bridlewood Farm Beth Bayer

Pinnacle Racing Stables & William A Kaplan Kaleem Shah Inc. Eric Fein

William A Kaplan Bob Baffert Richard Dutrow Jr

Priscilla Vaccarezza B J Wright P and G Stable & Off the Hook LLC

Dale Romans Michael Pender Todd Pletcher

Robert Smithen Rosemont Stud Syndicate Estate of Gail Gee, Mark Hoffman & Earl Trostrud, Jr. Steven Ciccarone

Brian Lynch Jerry Fanning Michael L Reavis Michelle Nihei

Male Turf (Three-Year-Olds and up Colt/Gelding, races run on the turf) Little Mike (Spanish Steps) - 23 Jeranimo (Congaree) - 20 Turbo Compressor (Halo's Image) - 17

Carlo E Vaccarezza Brylynn Farm Inc Bridlewood Farm

Female Turf (Three-Year-Olds and up Filly/Mare, races run on the turf) Bay to Bay (Sligo Bay) - 13 Wild Mia (Wildcat Heir) - 7 Hooh Why (Cloud Hopping) - 6 Regalo Mia (Sligo Bay) - 6

Adena Springs Montgomery Farm Gail Gee Juvenile Diaz

■ Selection Criteria for Florida-bred champions Year-end divisional champions will be determined using the “FTBOA Chase to the Championship” point system, a ranking that awards points for success in stakes races. The “FTBOA Chase to the Championship” allocates points for stakes wins in graded races, open-company stakes and Florida’s signature racing days, with the number of points awarded based upon the classification of the race. International stakes race status is governed by the International Cataloguing Standards Committee. The first three finishers in all Group/Graded and listed races appearing in Part I of the International Cataloguing Standards and International Statistics Book printed by The Jockey Club receive “black-type” designation. Ten point bonus to be awarded to any 2-year-old colt or filly sweeping all three legs of the Florida Stallion Stakes in determining the Champion 2-year-old Florida-bred. The Florida-bred with the most points in each division on December 31 is deemed champion of that division. Horse of the Year, Broodmare of the Year and Breeder of the Year will be voted on by the FTBOA Board of Directors and announced at the FTBOA’s annual awards dinner. In the case of a year-end tie in points in any division, earnings will be used to decide the tiebreaker. — Points are assigned as follows: 40 THE FLORIDA HORSE • AUGUST 2012

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

■ Open-Company Stakes ($50,000 + Purse) Points for WIN ONLY: Win: 2 points

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Florida Sires The following list includes currently active, deceased, and pensioned stallions, with racing results updated through July 29, 2012. Statistics provided by The Jockey Club Information Systems Inc.

PUT IT BACK

WILDCAT HEIR

CHAPEL ROYAL

Name

Sire Name

Farm Name

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

Leading Earner

Wildcat Heir

Forest Wildcat

Journeyman Stud

$2,712,914

156

$2,798,906

Derwin’s Star

$133,000

Put It Back

Honour and Glory Bridlewood Farm

$2,367,772

154

$2,533,826

Yara

Chapel Royal

Montbrook

Signature Stallions

$1,791,393

184

$1,794,795

Full Mandate

A.P. Indy

Hartley/DeRenzo

$1,708,343

With Distinction

Storm Cat

Hartley/DeRenzo

$1,692,320

133

Repent

Louis Quatorze

Cloverleaf Farms II

$1,497,996

150

Halo’s Image

Halo

Deceased

$1,441,673

Stonewall Farm Ocala

$1,227,924

Leroidesanimaux (BRZ) Candy Stripes

Yrlg Avg

2yo Sold

2yo Avg

$26,458

$47,813

$290,250

$17,556

$42,679

Dolly Peach

$120,995

$14,629

$15,500

$1,738,200

Ron the Greek

$872,932

$1,600

$20,500

$1,696,677

Canuletmedowneasy

$95,130

$26,200

$25,432

$1,503,064

Lotta Lovin

$79,914

$16,078

$20,386

$1,441,673

Turbo Compressor

$674,180

$5,675

$12,167

$1,394,293

Aquitania

$130,000

$37,293

$125,400

$409,845

$47,000

Concorde’s Tune

Concorde Bound Deceased

$1,150,978

$1,158,082

Musical Romance

Value Plus

Unbridled’s Song Stonewall Farm Ocala

$1,036,114

$1,136,246

Sweet Jody

Graeme Hall

Dehere

Winding Oaks

$1,124,884

$1,125,016

Greatness

Mr. Prospector

Stonewall Farm Ocala

$1,088,154

$1,089,991

City Place

Storm Cat

Hartley/DeRenzo

$962,206

Pomeroy

Boundary

Vinery Florida

$920,159

High Cotton

Dixie Union

Ocala Stud

$783,636

Montbrook

Buckaroo

Ocala Stud

$801,357

Saint Anddan

A.P. Indy

Journeyman Stud

$792,671

A. P. Warrior

A.P. Indy

Stonewall Farm Ocala

$720,264

Roar of the Tiger

Storm Cat

Deceased

Teuflesberg

Johannesburg

Strong Contender

Leading Yrlg Earnings Sold

$61,369

$10,582

$35,357

Duke of Mischief

$212,000

$19,342

$29,464

Great Attack

$144,092

$1,000

$17,750

$976,985

La Tia

$177,360

$9,583

$20,500

$920,586

Love My Way

$71,040

$28,423

$40,100

$814,049

Currency Swap

$268,300

$26,222

$36,275

$797,257

Shadowbdancing

$132,450

$16,500

$86,400

$792,671

Another Romance

$178,660

$12,667

$9,640

$778,124

Thunder Moccasin

$90,000

$13,083

$35,000

$741,550

$741,160

Bear Tough Tiger

$59,160

$8,833

Journeyman Stud

$737,192

$739,294

Trinniberg

$510,000

$22,000

$102,240

Maria’s Mon

Stonewall Farm Ocala

$735,596

$737,005

Awesome Fire

$220,437

$17,533

$27,500

West Acre

Forty Niner

Stonehedge Farm South $727,878

$727,878

Western Prospector

$82,223

$2,500

$13,500

Three Wonders

Storm Cat

Deceased

$693,378

$705,659

Threetimesawonder

$45,416

Imperialism

Langfuhr

Get Away Farm

$672,038

$680,656

Imperial Czar

$120,268

$9,929

$17,750

Proud Accolade

Yes It’s True

Deceased

$677,784

$678,020

My Charming Clyde

$74,394

$7,886

$27,000

THE FLORIDA HORSE • AUGUST 2012 41

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Leading Florida Juvenile Sires The following list includes currently active, deceased, and pensioned stallions, with racing results updated through July 29, 2012. Statistics provided by The Jockey Club Information Systems Inc.

PUT IT BACK

BRING THE HEAT

WILDCAT HEIR

Yrlg Avg

2yo Sold

$17,556

$42,679

$26,458

$47,813

$40,000

$10,466

$20,000

$26,222

$36,275

$46,149

$10,582

$35,357

Cat Five Hurricane

$28,597

$17,000

$43,068

$91,563

Mr Rodriguez

$33,000

$14,629

$15,500

$86,870

Too Fast to Pass

$33,170

$26,200

$25,432

$58,968

Tara From the Cape

$32,668

$37,293

$125,400

$55,517

The Party’s Here

$31,200

$5,000

$8,400

$53,500

Jewel in the Sky

$18,750

$13,014

$36,826

$50,104

Impossible Mary

$46,100

$16,500

$86,400

$48,153

Unflinching

$43,585

$7,500

Journeyman Stud

$48,060

Sr. Quisqueyano

$21,100

$8,307

$20,019

Boundary

Vinery Florida

$46,790

Cay to Pomeroy

$34,700

$28,423

$40,100

City Place

Storm Cat

Hartley/DeRenzo

$44,673

Your Sister

$10,610

$9,583

$20,500

Hal’s Image

Halo’s Image

Get Away Farm

$41,950

Joanie’s Image

$12,220

B L’s Appeal

Valid Appeal

Randolph Thoroughbreds $40,370

$40,370

Dighton

$23,210

$1,000

$7,833

Got the Last Laugh

Distorted Humor McKathan Brothers

$37,725

Giggle Fit

$27,000

$5,625

$12,375

Saint Anddan

A.P. Indy

Journeyman Stud

$37,110

Sainted Dancer

$29,770

$12,667

$9,640

Act of Duty

Mr. Prospector

Stonehedge Farm South $36,420

$36,420

Dan the Irishman

$26,100

$2,046

$2,500

Gottcha Gold

Coronado’s Quest Ocala Stud

$30,515

My Daddy’s Dollars

$21,100

$7,386

$26,769

Roar of the Tiger

Storm Cat

$29,797

No Way R J

$15,770

$8,833

Farm Name

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

Leading Earner

Leading Yrlg Earnings Sold

Name

Sire Name

Put It Back

Honour and Glory Bridlewood Farm

$249,643

Billos Boy

$47,925

Wildcat Heir

Forest Wildcat

Journeyman Stud

$174,240

Heir Kitty

$30,000

Bring the Heat

In Excess (IRE)

Ward Ranch

$157,981

Handsome Jack

$69,936

Untuttable

Unbridled

Stonehedge Farm South $149,585

$149,585

Two T’s At Two B

$132,135

Doneraile Court

Seattle Slew

Stonewall Farm Ocala

$147,525

$149,115

Scherer Magic

$107,400

High Cotton

Dixie Union

Ocala Stud

$129,085

Spurious Precision

$48,000

Value Plus

Unbridled’s Song Stonewall Farm Ocala

$114,612

Allaboutcaroline

Cowtown Cat

Distorted Humor Journeyman Stud

$92,639

$94,853

Chapel Royal

Montbrook

Signature Stallions

$89,815

With Distinction

Storm Cat

Hartley/DeRenzo

$86,870

Leroidesanimaux (BRZ) Candy Stripes

Stonewall Farm Ocala

$58,968

Black Mambo

Kingmambo

Deceased

$55,517

Circular Quay

Thunder Gulch

Journeyman Stud

$53,500

Montbrook

Buckaroo

Ocala Stud

$50,104

Straight Man

Saint Ballado

Signature Stallions

Exclusive Quality

Elusive Quality

Pomeroy

Deceased

42 THE FLORIDA HORSE • AUGUST 2012

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COWTOWN CAT

Leading Earnings

Yrlg Sold

Yrlg Avg

2yo Sold

Cat Five Hurricane

$28,597

$17,000

$43,068

$53,500

Jewel in the Sky

$18,750

$13,014

$36,826

$37,725

Giggle Fit

$27,000

$5,625

$12,375

Name

Sire Name

Farm Name

Cowtown Cat

Distorted Humor

Journeyman Stud

$92,639

$94,853

Circular Quay

Thunder Gulch

Journeyman Stud

$53,500

McKathan Brothers

$37,725

Got the Last Laugh Distorted Humor

GOT THE LAST LAUGH

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

Earnings

Leading Earner

2yo Avg

Gottcha Gold

Coronado’s Quest Ocala Stud

$30,515

My Daddy’s Dollars

$21,100

$7,386

$26,769

Keyed Entry

Honour and Glory Bridlewood Farm

$15,065

Hyena

$13,200

$5,918

$33,313

$10,755

Kinz Funky Monkey

$8,400

$2,000

$48,667

The Green Monkey Forestry

Hartley/DeRenzo

Leading Florida 2nd Crop Sires The following list includes currently active, deceased, and pensioned stallions, with racing results updated through July 29, 2012. Statistics provided by The Jockey Club Information Systems Inc.

HIGH COTTON

TEUFLESBERG

SAINT ANDDAN

Name

Sire Name

Farm Name

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

High Cotton

Dixie Union

Ocala Stud

$783,636

$814,049

Currency Swap

$268,300

$26,222

$36,275

Saint Anddan

A.P. Indy

Journeyman Stud

$792,671

Another Romance

$178,660

$12,667

$9,640

Teuflesberg

Johannesburg

Journeyman Stud

$737,192

$739,294

Trinniberg

$510,000

$22,000

$102,240

Exclusive Quality

Elusive Quality

Journeyman Stud

$620,100

Christopher’s Joy

$55,367

$8,307

$20,019

Simon Pure

Silver Deputy

Hartley/DeRenzo

$521,927

Dorothy’s Aurora

$80,050

$6,757

$20,800

Spellbinder

Tale of the Cat

Stonewall Farm Ocala $297,053

$297,053

Well Spelled

$135,740

$9,500

Earnings

Leading Earner

Leading Earnings

Yrlg Sold

Yrlg 2yo Avg Sold

2yo Avg

THE FLORIDA HORSE • AUGUST 2012 43

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Offspring of Journeyman Stud stallions call the shots at Calder’s Summit of Speed By MICHAEL COMPTON alder Casino and Race Course’s Summit of Speed Program on July 7 turned out to be a showcase for offspring of Journeyman Stud stallions. Owned by Brent and Crystal Fernung, Journeyman Stud staked its claim to Summit of Speed day as the Ocala stallion farm was represented in the spotlight with runners by Awesome of Course, Teuflesberg, Saint Anddan and Cowtown Cat. The parade of winners was punctuated with a magnificent battle in the Carry Back Stakes (G3) between Florida-bred Fort Loudon, a son of Journeyman’s Awesome of Course, and Trinniberg, by Journeyman’s Teuflesberg. Trinniberg, expected to shore up his status as one of the leading sprinters in the country, had already annexed the Swale Stakes (G3) at Gulfstream Park, the Bay Shore Stakes (G3) at Aqueduct and the Woody Stephens Stakes (G2) at Belmont Park this year. Sent off as the odds-on favorite in the Carry Back,Trinniberg flashed his customary early zip away from the gate. His brilliant speed in sprint races this season has spelled defeat for his foes. Not so in the Carry Back. Fort Loudon and jockey Fernando Jara confidently stalked Trinniberg down the backstretch and into the far turn.The two runners hooked up at the head of the lane for a memorable stretch duel. At the wire, it was the Jacks or Better homebred Fort Loudon prevailing by a neck. Fort Loudon stopped the timer for six furlongs in 1:10.57. It was nearly 14 lengths back to the third-place finisher Angelofdistinction. “We were pretty confident coming into this race, and we thought we had a chance regardless of who was running,” said Jara. “We just wanted to run our race. The only thing [trainer] Stanley [Gold] told me was to

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make sure that I didn’t let the other horse [Trinniberg] go by himself, and I didn’t. And my horse ran great like I knew he would. I’ve got a great horse.” For a confident Brent Fernung, the Carry Back produced an ideal finish.

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“I didn’t know what the outcome was going to be,” said Fernung. “But I knew I was going to be happy. At the quarter-pole it was obvious one of those two was going to win. It was a heck of a horse race, that’s for sure.” The Carry Back was the third consecutive stakes win for Fort Loudon, who previously captured the Unbridled and In Summation Stakes at Calder. Last season at age

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two, Fort Loudon swept the Florida Stallion Stakes series for trainer Stanley Gold. “I was proud of Fort Loudon,” said Fernung. “Not too many bad horses sweep the Florida Stallion Stakes. He has never really received the credit he deserved. He ran credibly in some early Derby preps this year, but he is really putting it together now sprinting. Fred (Brei) has always

Fort Loudon and Trinniberg battle in the Carry Back Stakes at Calder.

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Florida-bred Another Romance (No. 3 above) became the first stakes winner for Journeyman Stud stallion Saint Anddan.

believed Fort Loudon was going to be a better sprinter. trainer Bill Kaplan. She covered the distance in 1:12.02. This race did more to vault Fort Loudon forward. It Bred by Beverly Tortora and Dr. Alice Russell, Anshouldn’t diminish Trinniberg’s reputation. He runs his other Romance races in the colors of Lewis Pell, race every time. I understand they are both at Saratoga, Michael Eigner and Pinnacle Racing Stable, et al. so maybe they can hook up again in the King’s Bishop.” “She is putting it all together right now,” Fernung Awesome of Course, a son said of Another Romance. “For of Awesome Again—Mais She [Musical Romance] is Saint Anddan to get a horse Qui, by Lyphard, stood the like her from his first crop is putting it all together right now. 2012 season for $7,500. He is important to his stud career.” also the sire of champion Awe- For Saint Anddan to get a horse Finishing third in the Azalea some Feather. Teuflesberg, a like her from his first crop is im- was Jack’s or Better’s Redbud Road, a daughter of Awesome multiple graded stakes winner portant to his stud career. in his racing career, is by Jo— Brent Fernung of Course. hannesburg—St. Michele, by Saint Anddan, a graded Devil’s Bag. He stood the 2012 season for $3,500. stakes-winning son of A.P. Indy—Adoradancer, by In the Azalea Stakes (G3), Another Romance, a Danzig Connection, is Florida’s leading second-crop sire Florida-bred daughter of Journeyman’s Saint Anddan, with 19 winners, three stakes winners and progeny earnbecame the first graded stakes winner for her sire. Rid- ings of $774,702 through July 18. Another Romance is den by Luca Panici, Another Romance stormed from last his leading earner at $178,660. Teuflesberg ranks secto first to win the six-furlong fixture by 13⁄4 legnths for ond with five winners, three stakes winners and earn-

“

”

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ings of $729,229. Trinniberg’s $510,000 is responsible for a large chunk of his sire’s progeny earnings this season. Saint Anddan and Teuflesberg rank 15th and 18th, respectively, on the national second-crop standings. Cat Five Hurricane’s impressive victory in a five-furlong dash in the first race started Journeyman Stud’s day on the right foot. The 2-year-old colt is by Journeyman stallion Cowtown Cat, Florida’s leading first-crop sire by progeny earnings and 7th nationally. Cowtown Cat is the sire of four juvenile winners and boasts earnings of $86,700. In second place on Florida’s first-crop sire list through July 18 is Journeyman Stud stallion Circular Quay with two winners and $44,350 in earnings. “I believe Cowtown Cat is one of the best first-crop sires in the country not just in Florida,” said Fernung. “The one I fear most as a threat to him leading the way in Florida is Circular Quay. Our sires are off to a great start.” Cowtown Cat was a multiple graded stakes winner during his racing career. The son of Distorted Humor—Tom’s Cat, by Storm Cat, stood last season for $4,000. While the Fernungs have enjoyed other multiple win days, this year’s Summit of Speed ranks at the top. “We watched the races from the computer at home,” said Brent. “It was certainly a huge day for us. We’ve had several good days in the past, but this was the best of them.” ■

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Cat Five Hurricane, a 2-year-old colt by Journeyman stallion Cowtown Cat (at left), started the succession of wins for Journeyman Stud with an impressive victory in the first race of the day.

THE FLORIDA HORSE • AUGUST 2012 47

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AWinning Combination By MELANIE LaCOUR t was Winston Churchill who most accurately illuminated the human-equine emotional connection when he declared “there’s something about the outside of a horse that is good for the inside of a man” or in the case of the Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation farm based in Ocala, Florida; a woman. At the Florida TRF facility the horses are cared for solely by female inmates from the Lowell Correctional Institute, and the vocational program these women participate in is the physical embodiment of Mr. Churchill’s words. The farm itself is roughly 100 acres of undulating green hills with a well-kept barn and paddocks surrounded by black four-board fencing. Notably, the plank fences used to contain the 54 horses currently housed at the facility are the only ones on the property. In fact, there is nothing one can see to suggest this farm is anything other than one of the typical sprawling thoroughbred farms historically endemic to this area, including the extraordinary level of care and attention the horses receive. The horses housed at the facility consist of approximately 15-20 sponsored thoroughbreds who will live out their retirement years on the farm, grazing alongside those there temporarily with the ultimate goal of adoption and a new career. Among the resident retirees, one can find two notable Florida champions; Carterista (Dr. Carter – Bosun’s Bride by Nashua), the 1993 Florida Champion Turf Horse and winner of eight stakes races; and Shake You Down (Montbrook – Mauvin Gway by Rajab), the 2003 Florida Champion Sprinter

48 THE FLORIDA HORSE • AUGUST 2012

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Prison to Paddock

50 THE FLORIDA HORSE • AUGUST 2012

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The students are able to use the relationships they cultivate with the horses as a source of comfort, acceptance, discipline, affection, peace and purpose; all elements of human character that are all but nonexistent in a prison environment.

women receive a certificate in equine care technology. Based on the depiction above, it should come as no surprise that the women housed at the prison scramble for an opportunity to fill the relatively few spaces available, as it affords them the opportunity to spend their days outside in a role as close to regular civilian life as an inmate could hope to be. “Currently, I am a number and my name is inmate” explains Jennifer Barrett, succinctly relating the feeling of having one’s identity stripped upon entering the penal system. Linda Marter goes on to paint a picture of a life inside the prison using words like “harsh,” “dark,” “empty,” and other adjectives that would make a person shudder if used to describe everyday life. “I had become a mere number” recounts Amber Lee on the feeling of alienation once inside. However, the TRF program has provided these women the means with which to regain some of what they lost when they arrived at the prison, illustrated by Jennifer’s uplifting qualification of her initial account where she explains that while on the farm “for 9 hours a day, I am Jennifer Barrett. I can be happy, nurturing, have an opinion, and enjoy something that I love.” “Yes, I am still incarcerated” says Linda Marter “but because of a horse I am now free.” Notwithstanding the feeling of independence and the practical skills acquired, the emotional benefits that are the product of this win-win situation are paramount to the success of the TRF program. The students develop and maintain a close connection with their charges and the horses thrive under their care and individualized attention. The women on the farm are remarkably confiand winner of nearly $1.5 million. However, all that make dent and take an obvious and well-deserved pride in their their home here are treated with the same kindness and depth of knowledge, responsibility, and hard work, and in devotion regardless of lifetime earnings. Champion or turn the horses learn to adjust to a more relaxed life away not, they might find themselves the recipient of a deli- from the track. These women could have easily elected to cious peanut butter sandwich generously shared from the while away their sentences within the prison walls, but instead they have taken the initiative to choose a path that lunch of one of the devoted women who care for them. ensures not only labor, sweat and These dedicated caretakers are a commitment, but also confidence, group of 25 female inmates, referred to as students, who are selected from has provided the means hope and a chance at a future. It is easy to see why these women the non-violent prison population. with which women can naturally gravitate toward the horses The students rotate to work 15 at a regain some of what at the farm; in them they see a mirtime, 9 hours a day, with weekends rored reflection of themselves. As staffed on a volunteer basis. Those they lost when they such, the women often use the cirwho are selected to participate are arrived at prison. cumstances of the retired thoroughgiven the privilege of being the primary caregivers of two or three horses per student, and of breds as a metaphor for their own lives. In this way they acquiring practical skills like grooming, feeding, muck- are better able to articulate how it is to be considered uning, daily care, riding, and doctoring, as well as learning desirable and then be presented a second chance. “I think a college curriculum with 22 written tests covering var- these horses have a lot in common with us, as inmates” ious aspects of horse care. When they graduate the explains Evelyn Spillman, “we have all been out there in

The TRF program

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a race and have gone as fast as we could for as long as we could. The fact that they are done racing and so are we, gives [sic] us common grounds” “I think that is why as inmates we bond so closely with these horses because we are both being given a second chance to start something new” explains Angela Cooper. Their stories, both horse and human, illustrate a personal evolution in which one is able to reclassify themselves in order to succeed. Stemming from the strong bonds they form with them, the women exhibit a universal and unconditional reverence for the horses under their care, frequently using the word “magnificent” to describe their charges and relating the sense of trust developed by their time spent together. Angela Cooper describes the rapport between her and her horse by saying “[h]e gives me unconditional love and unbelievable trust and puts his special life in my hands. It is a humbling experience and I do not take it for granted.” The students are able to use the relationships they cultivate with the horses as a source of comfort, acceptance, discipline, affection, peace and purpose; all elements of human character that are all but nonexistent in a prison environment. As a result of this bond, the horses reap the benefits of abundant individual attention. “The level of care given to the horses is undeniably great and leaves me with a sense of pride and accomplishment after a hard days work” says Melissa Matuzek. The most prominent theme among the student’s testimonials, however, is undoubtedly optimism, attained only through the hard work and education that are the roots of the program itself. “The work is hard, hot and dirty” says

A consequence of the labor and hands-on as well as classroom education provided to the students is the aforementioned optimism; the women almost universally have a sense of future where one had not existed before.

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Angela Cooper, but she is quick to add that the effort is absolutely worth it when she sees her horse resting comfortably in his paddock. And the work is indeed hard as the women are expected to perform every aspect of horse care as well as farm maintenance. “It’s not always fun, our chores involve mucking stalls, haying, weed eating, feeding, and keeping everything in its place” says Sarah Hall, but along with the work “you learn patience and you learn to make the most of your time.” A consequence of the labor and hands-on as well as classroom education provided to the students is the aforementioned optimism; the women almost universally have a sense of future where one had not existed before. An example of this is Kathryn Dupree, who prior to entering the program says she could not see the light at the end of the tunnel. However, she has since been able to gain “self-worth, unconditional love, team work, and a boost

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Stemming from the strong bonds they form with them, the women exhibit a universal and unconditional reverence for the horses under their care.

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Prison to Paddock

of confidence” through her time at the farm. “Prison is not easy, pretty, fun, or a great place for rehabilitation,” Erika Martin bluntly states in her evaluation of a life inside, but by being able to escape the everyday life in lockup, she is able to practice and further her skills every day. Erika now plans to take what she has learned and apply it in her life after release. “The possibilities in the equine field are endless and I can’t explain how good it feels to know what I want to do with my life.” This prospect of a successful future has become a reality for a number of the program’s graduates based on their unique ability to gain employment using the ex-

52 THE FLORIDA HORSE • AUGUST 2012

tensive and specialized knowledge they acquired working on the farm. Dawn Bieber, who graduated from the program in 2009, was offered an opportunity shortly after her release to work for Classic Bloodstock, LLC in Ocala where she remained employed for three years. Prior to becoming part of the program at TRF, Dawn’s involvement with horses was minimal and went only as far as doing some combined training as a teenager. As a student in the program, she gained a great deal of invaluable hands-on experience while assisting in the physical rehabilitation of the ex-race horses, helping them come back to form from injuries such as bowed tendons or bucked shins. Shannon Riger recently finished her time with the TRF when she was released on May 12, 2012 after a 13 year stay at Lowell C.I. While a student in the program, Shannon worked extensively in the area of retraining. As the daughter of a thoroughbred owner and trainer and also an experienced equestrian herself, she was able to make a significant impact by helping prepare horses for adoption through her under saddle work. As part of the retraining process, Shannon worked with up to five horses at a time, teaching them basic voice and leg commands to prepare them for a second career. The close relationships she developed with her equine pupils then enabled her to assist in a successful adoption process by directing prospective owners toward the horse best suited for their purpose. When asked to expand upon their experiences and opinion of the program and the doors it opened, so to speak, upon release, the women had nothing but positive insight. Shannon explained that she found it therapeutic to be among the horses and that the students learn the “proper way” of accomplishing a plethora of tasks. She summarized the students’ future opportunities by saying “if they really want it, they can learn so much and then take [their knowledge] out into the real world.” And take her knowledge to the real world she has done. Having been released less than a month prior to the writing of this article, she is currently searching for employment within the horse industry, but thanks to the program her prospects are bright. She has not only been actively interviewing, but attended the OBS sale in June with Kinsman Farm and hopes that her experience there might lead to a more permanent position. Shannon remains committed to the TRF program and its residents; as evidenced by her choice to adopt two of the TRF horses herself upon her release. Currently one can find former TRF residents Eastside Train and Hurricane Sergio living a comfortable life on 3.5 acres in Ocala under the watchful eye of someone who has received top-

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are finished serving their time. The vocational training notch training in every aspect of equine upkeep. Dawn Bieber echoed Shannon’s sentiments when the women receive is essential to their success as it proshe attributed her success to the fact that she “really, re- vides them with a means to support themselves in a world ally used the program” and further explained that “if that might look down its nose at those with a troubled past. Diane Garcia is the perfect example of someone you use [the program], you will not have a problem finding a job when you get out.” When asked to elabo- who has taken the trade skills she gained in the program rate on her accomplishments after being released, she and transformed them into a successful career. Upon described how she attended an OBS sale with the proof equine care and farm gram’s director, John Evans, maintenance, the women have the option of following their interests and focusand that the first person he ing on a particular part of the trade. In doing so, they are able to prepare themapproached on her behalf was more than happy to selves for a productive life outside when they are finished serving their time. offer her a position. Although currently a stay at home mom, Dawn expressed her release in May of 2011 after a seven year sentence, enthusiasm for heading back to work in the thorough- Diane quickly realized she was going to have to take bred industry in the near future. Of John Evans and the the initiative if she was going to support herself. Two program at TRF, she explained “that man and that pro- weeks later she started her farrier business, Excellent gram saved my life, there’s no telling where I’d be if I Equine Care, located in Haines City, Florida. Diane initially began by going door to door looking for business, hadn’t gone through that program.” With the curriculum incorporating all aspects of but within a year her reputation had flourished in the The vocational training equine care and farm maintenance, the women have the community and she started acquiring clients through the women receive is essential to their success option of following their interests and focusing on a par- word of mouth. as it provides them with Having arrived at TRF as a Boston native with ab- a means to support ticular part of the trade. In doing so, they are able to prepare themselves for a productive life outside when they solutely no horse experience, she admits she was initially themselves in a world

COOKIE SERLETIC PHOTO

With the curriculum incorporating all aspects

THE FLORIDA HORSE • AUGUST 2012 53

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Prison to Paddock

path on which to advance beyond their past and the resources to put their mistakes behind them. The TRF takes timid on the farm. However, it did not take long for her to an otherwise daunting situation and provides a light at transform into a full-fledged horsewomen, and soon she the end of the tunnel, something to strive for and the tools was completely engrossed in her work. In particular, Diane to reintegrate productively back into society. Funding and support for the program and facility had a fascination with feet. She started studying the hoof, observing the farrier, asking questions and devouring come from a group of organizations and individuals that books; she explains it by saying she became “absorbed by recognize and seek to nurture the positive impact the prothe whole medical aspect” of the farrier trade. Thereafter, gram has on the Florida thoroughbred industry and the having been given the mental tools by the program and the community as a whole. Included in this group are the physical tools of the trade by director Evans, Diane had FTBOA, Florida Thoroughbred Charities, OBS Co., the ability and confidence to strike out on her own. “The Gulfstream Park, Calder Racecourse, Tampa Bay biggest thing [the program] does is for the girls is self-con- Downs, FHBPA and the National TRF. As evidenced by the support it receives, it is difto admit they have made mistakes in ficult to imagine an organizatheir past, speaking candidly about their sentences and time in prison. How- tion connected with Florida ever they do not dwell on it and they live their lives looking forward not back. thoroughbred racing that would not want to see succeed a profidence” she explained when asked what the most impor- gram that provides a chance for thoroughbreds to have tant take-away was for students. She summed up her successful post-racing career and the means to support testimonial by saying that “girls in prison have made mis- the permanently retired horses that prompt students to takes, followed the wrong people, went down the wrong say of them “he awakens the inside of my heart and fills path” but emphasized that it doesn’t make them bad peo- my spirit with promise.” After all, there is no downside ple. Like the thoroughbreds they care for, “the girls need to lifting up those around us, both human and horse, it The program and the a chance” she said, the emotion evident in her voice. is a winning combination. ■ industry have helped None of these women are ashamed to admit they have them gain a clear view of Melanie laCour is a Graduate Intern at FTBOA. She earned her a bright future and made mistakes in their past, speaking candidly about B.A. in Psychology from the University of Kentucky and her J.D. provided them a path on their sentences and time in prison. However they do not from the University of Kentucky College of Law. This fall she will which to advance beyond dwell on it and they live their lives looking forward not be attending the University of Arizona Race Track Industry Protheir past and the gram as a candidate for a master’s degree. In addition to being a resources to put their back. The program and the industry have helped them racing enthusiast, Melanie has ridden hunter/jumpers for 20 years. mistakes behind them. gain a clear view of a bright future and provided them a When not at school, she resides in Miami, Fla., with her husband.

54 THE FLORIDA HORSE • AUGUST 2012

COOKIE SERLETIC PHOTO

None of these women are ashamed

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FARM MANAGEMENT

Help SaveYour Pastures

Stop Stormwater Runoff ello to all! With all the great rains we have been getting and hurricane season now underway, it seemed like a good time to talk more about an efficient, cost-effective and pretty way to help save your pastures and reduce storm water runoff. I have spoken about this in previous articles, but have only touched on lightly. Help protect your pastures from runoff by planting rain gardens. Rain gardens are shallow depressions that utilize specifically placed, deep-rooted native plants and grasses to help decrease and purify storm water runoff. But the benefits for farms go well beyond just helping to improve water quality. I have seen many farms over the years that suffer from terrible erosion due to storm water runoff; the massive amounts of water coming from that runoff creates streams and lakes, causing paddocks to become useless. For example, I went to a beautiful farm not long

If you have the reoccurring problem of getting your pastures washed away, consider putting in a rain garden or planting more trees and shrubs; it might be just the thing needed to help stop erosion and leave your farm looking more beautiful than ever. ago that suffered from massive pasture erosion due to runoff coming from the road. Constructing a rain garden where the rain starts into the pasture would not only make for a beautiful place to be seen from the road, it could also potentially eliminate the runoff that causes the extreme erosion to the paddock each year. A rain garden mimics the natural absorption and pollutant removal activities of a forest, meadow or a large, grassy pasture with shrubbery; it can absorb as much as 30 to 40% more runoff than a standard lawn. Capturing rainwater in a rain garden, which will hold the water for a short time, thus allowing it to be slowly released into the soil, can reduce the rush coming from a large storm – quickly, neatly and naturally. It can be a dug “depression”, or it could be started in a natural depression area where rain normally puddles. So, for the time spent doing some digging and the cost of planting some inexpensive native plants, pastures and

56 THE FLORIDA HORSE • AUGUST 2012

fence lines may no longer suffer from a gulley or stream caused by summer’s heavy rains, potentially saving a lot of money and eliminating hours needed to then fix the problem each time a serious rain hits the farm. http://www.tappwater.org/raingardens.aspx http://www.epa.gov/greeningepa/stormwater/edison_rain_garden.htm

Above are two good web sites to check out concerning rain gardens. Explanations on what a rain garden is, how it can improve water quality, descriptions on how to design and build a garden, as well as varieties of plants to use can be found on these sites. An extremely important thing to keep in mind is that the rain garden be placed early in the path of the rain flow, so the “river “that forms through the paddocks as a result of summer’s rains can be dealt with early, before it has time to become that powerful river or large pond. Planting trees and shrubs are other excellent ways to soak up tremendous amounts of storm water. The immense root systems on trees allow them to soak up lots of water over large areas. Just the tree canopy itself will help disperse and slow the rain, increasing the ground absorption areas for the water. Trees, shrubs and other groundcover can absorb as much as fourteen times more rainwater that simply having a lawn, so planting them is another easy, pretty and highly effective solution. This year, if you have the reoccurring problem of getting your pastures washed away, consider putting in a rain garden or planting more trees and shrubs; it might be just the thing needed to help stop runoff, help purify storm water, eliminate or cut down erosion and leave your farm looking more beautiful than ever. You can always contact me or your local Extension agent if you need any help with starting your rain garden. As always, keep up the good management practices! ■

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

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FLORIDA Focus

turned $12.60, $5.40 and $3.60. Cascabella completed the $99 exacta and paid $10 to place and $6.80 to show. It was another 7¾ lengths back to Daring Reality, who rallied to pay $3.80 to show. “She broke well today and showed really good speed,” said winning jockey Angel Serpa. “We were going fast down the backstretch, so I took a hold and let the other horse (Cascabella) go. When the rail opened up around the turn, I sent her through and she took off.” The Lighthouse win was the first in three starts this season and sixth overall for Successful Song, a 5-year-old mare by Successful Appeal from the Sultry Song mare Song for Annie. The $45,000 winner’s share of the purse boosted her lifetime bankroll to $292,038.

Florida-bred Immortal Eyes

Robert Abbo’s Immortal Eyes took the $70,000 Charles Town Dash Jun. 30 for the third consecutive year, showing no signs of slowing down at the age of seven. Trained by Damon Dilodovico, Immortal Eyes has been almost unbeatable at four and one-half furlongs at Charles Town, winning seven of his eight career races at that distance at the West Virginia oval. Bred in Florida by Adena Springs and by the Stonewall Farm Ocala stallion Greatness, Immortal Eyes had to fight for this Charles Town Dash having found himself in a speed duel with Map of the World and Yukon Wildcat down the backstretch in a blazing opening quarter mile in :211⁄5. Those three kept at it through another fast furlong completing the half mile in :441⁄5 but only Immortal Eyes was able to accelerate down the stretch and win by a twolength margin in :501⁄5. Immortal Eyes has won two of three starts this year and 11 of 32 career outings and sports a lifetime bankroll of over $540,000.

Successful Song Sings at Monmouth

DENVER PHOTO

Live Oak Plantation’s Florida-bred Successful Song cruised home to a 3¼ length score in the $75,000 Lighthouse Stakes Jun. 30 at Monmouth Park. In the mile and a sixteenth Lighthouse, contested over a fast main track, Successful Song battled early before letting Cascabella take command down the backstretch. Turning for home, Successful Song moved inside that rival and kicked clear for the open length victory. Trained by Eddie Plesa, Jr., Successful Song stopped the timer Florida-bred Successful Song in 1:46.22 and re-

John Johny Jak Gets Jiggy in Kerlan Making his first start in more than seven months, Florida-bred John Johny Jak was the upset winner of the $70,800 Robert K. Kerlan Memorial Handicap Jul. 1 at Betfair Hollywood Park. Unfortunately, the 5year-old son of Journeyman Stud stallion Wildcat Heir suffered an injury to his right front shoulder while pulling up after the finish. He was returned to trainer Kristin Mulhall’s barn for further evaluation, according to the Betfair Hollywood Florida-bred John Johny Jak Park stewards. Owned by Kretz Racing LLC, John Johny Jak received a ground saving trip from leading jockey Rafael Bejarano while tracking the pace set by favored Florida-bred Comma to the Top, split horses at the top of the stretch and went on to win by 1¾ lengths. Racing for the first time since he finished fourth in the Grade 2 Citation Handicap won last Nov. 26 by Florida-bred Jeranimo, who captured the Grade 1, $300,000 Shoemaker Mile Saturday, John Johny Jak ran the six furlongs on turf in 1:08.63. Out of the Saint Ballado mare Pure Adrenaline, John Johny Jak earned his ninth win in 25 starts and pushed his bankroll to $342,279. He was bred in Florida by Murray Smith of Ocala. The 7-1 fourth choice in the field of eight, John Johny Jak paid $16.40, $7.20 and $3.40. Obviously (IRE), the 5-2 second choice, returned $4.20 and $3.20 while finishing 2¼ lengths in front of Comma to the Top. The 19-10 favorite who had won the Grade 3 Generous in 2010 in his lone previous start over the Betfair Hollywood Park grass, Comma to the Top paid $3 to show. BENOIT & ASSOCIATES PHOTO

MONTGOMERY PHOTO

Immortal Eyes Takes Dash

THE FLORIDA HORSE • AUGUST 2012 57

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PRACTICALLY SPEAKING

Scum of the Pond ne of the most common summer-time questions I receive is, “How do I get rid of the scum and/or slime growing in my farm pond?” The scum/slime in question is algae. Algae are in the plant kingdom, but technically they are not plants. A diverse group of organisms, algae survive in even the harshest habitats. From the dry desert, to the Arctic Circle, to boiling springs, these organisms have found a way to extract enough from their environment to live. Algae range in size from microscopic to meters long and from single-celled to complex organisms that rival large plants. These organisms may look like true plants, but unlike plants, algae do not have roots or true stems and leaves. In Florida’s freshwaters, algae are what make the water green. Green water is not necessarily undesirable, and neither are algae. In fact, algae are essential to the ecosystem and to life. A primary component of the food web, algae provide food for all types of animals, including fish, insects, mollusks, zooplankton (microscopic animals), and humans. Algae blooms occur when algae grows quickly and densely, often in warm, nutrient-rich waters. Although these blooms are natural, many people don’t like their appearance. Algae blooms are commonly green, but can appear blue-green, brown, red, or violet. Algae need light and nutrients, such as nitrogen and phosphorous, to grow. The amount of growth depends on the amount of nutrients in a system. Since algae need light to carry on photosynthesis, light penetration into the water is another limiting factor. Some blooms can be so dense they actually deplete oxygen levels, and may cause other organisms that use oxygen, such as desirable aquatic plants and fish, to become stressed and/or die. Copper has been used for many years as a tool for algae control in freshwater farm ponds. It has been used to successfully to control both filamentous algae and higher forms such as Chara (“Stink weed”). The problem with the use of copper is that there is a thin line that separates effective treatment levels from overdoses, which can kill fish. It is important to understand how to use copper and the precautions necessary for effective treatment. Copper comes in several forms which can be used in water. The cheapest, most common form is copper sulfate, which is available either as a crystal or a powder. Copper sulfate is water soluble, and dissolves fairly easily when mixed with water. Several companies market copper in liquid and crystal forms. Since the toxicity of copper to fish increases as the total alkalinity decreases, it is necessary to measure the total alkalinity of the water (NOT HARDNESS or pH), before using any copper treatment. A good rule of thumb is to divide the total alkalinity (in parts per million) by 100 to get the concentration of copper sulfate to use in

by UF/IFAS Marion CountyLivestock Agent Mark Shuffitt

The problem with the use of copper to control algae is that there is a thin line that separates effective treatment levels from overdoses, which can kill fish. It is important to understand how to use copper and the precautions necessary for effective treatment.

58 THE FLORIDA HORSE • AUGUST 2012

parts per million (1 ppm = 1 milligram/liter). For example, if alkalinity of the water is determined to be 150 ppm, the amount of Copper Sulfate needed would be calculated: 150/100 = 1.5 ppm. 1.5 ppm = 1.5 milligrams/liter. Florida’s waters are extremely variable in alkalinity, so if the alkalinity of the water is not known, don’t guess. Measure the alkalinity of the water prior to treating with copper. If total alkalinity is less than 50 ppm, copper treatments are not recommended due to the high risk of killing fish. If total alkalinity is over 250 ppm, do not use more than 2.5 ppm of copper sulfate. Copper sulfate is much heavier than water, and if just thrown into the pond it will sink to the bottom and chemically bind there where it will not have a chance to have an effect on the algae. When using copper sulfate, it should be first dissolved in water. After weighing the amount of copper sulfate needed to treat the pond, mix the copper sulfate in water, making sure that it all dissolves. It is recommended to dilute copper sulfate with as much water as possible and take great care when distributing it, avoiding the creation of areas with higher concentrations, commonly known as “hot spots.” When using a commercially formulated copper, follow the label instructions for dosage rates. The liquid forms can be applied directly to the water, but it is rec-

ommended that they are first mixed with water to dilute them. As with copper sulfate, great care should be taken to evenly disperse commercial formulations over the entire pond area, avoiding the creation of “hot spots”. In a pond with algae, copper treatments can cause oxygen concentrations to drop, which may result in fish kills. Pond algae are a major source of oxygen production and by removing it, this source of oxygen is also removed. Additionally, oxygen will be consumed as algae decompose. If you are treating to kill algae, either treat in a series of smaller doses over time or have emergency aeration available. Adapted from: 1) Plant Management in Florida Waters http://plants.ifas.ufl.edu/manage/ 2) Use of Copper in Freshwater Aquaculture and Farm Ponds by C. Watson & P.E. Yanong http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/fa008

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Two T’s and Two B, Salamera

COADY PHOTO

Florida-bred Salamera

the turn, drawing clear of his overmatched rivals, and coasting under the wire comfortably in front while stopping the timer in 1:06.56 for the 5½-furlong trip. “I’ve worked a couple of these other horses in the morning, so I knew he was better, and I wasn’t worried about much going into the race,” winning jockey Eduardo Nunez said. “And when I looked up in the stretch and saw him (on the infield video screen), I said to myself ‘wow, look at him just take off.’ He’s already a nice horse, and I think he is going to be a real nice horse.” Sent from the gate as the 1.90-1 favorite, Florida-bred Joshua’s Comprise, still a maiden, closed well to finish second and it

was 1½ lengths back to Florida-bred Billos Boy in third. One race earlier, in the J J’s Dream, Salamera fought past a stubborn Florida-bred Impossible Mary in mid-stretch and then dug in gamely to keep that pesky rival at bay, running 5½ furlongs in 1:05.70 under jockey Angel Castillo, in town from Parx Racing in Philadelphia to ride the filly for fellow Venezuelan Rodolfo Garcia. “Once I knew I needed a rider, I immediately pointed to Angel as the guy I wanted to ride,” Garcia said. “He was probably one of the best riders ever in Venezuela, and he rode almost all of my stakes winners down there. He used to ride for me here at Calder like 10 years ago, and even though I’ve got very good riders here, he is a personal friend of mine, so I called him, and he came to ride.” Salamera was a bit reserved through the opening stages of the J J’s Dream, settling in sixth-place early while Florida-bred Jewel in the Sky ran on the lead through fractions of :22.28 and :46.20. “My horse was bothered a bit early on, but I was able to get my horse settled and she was going along well,” Castillo said. As the field of fillies moved through the turn, odds-on favorite Impossible Mary moved to the front, but was immediately tracked and then pressured by Salamera. “I started moving up pretty easy, and when I told my filly to get into the race, she really picked up,” Castillo said. “And from that point, I knew my horse was going betCOADY PHOTO

While Tanourin Stable’s Florida-bred Salamera squeezed out a hard-fought neck victory in the $100,000 J J’s Dream at Calder Casino & Race Course Jun. 30, Gilbert Campbell’s Florida-bred Two T’s At Two B was much more emphatic in asserting his dominance over the local 2-year-old scene when taking the $100,000 Frank Gomez Memorial by 5¼ lengths. Trained by Kathleen O’Connell, Two T’s At Two B was never threatened at any point during his career debut back on May 19, and the same remained true for the Frank Gomez as the homebred son of Untuttable was content to press the pace through an opening quarter in :22.13 before taking control of the race with a four-wide move on

Florida-bred Two Tʼs At Two Be

ter than the other one (Impossible Mary) was. I knew I would win.” Castillo was correct in that assessment, but the result was far from over, even when Salamera grabbed the lead in mid-stretch as Impossible Mary fought back along the rail and made a race of it through the wire. “My filly showed some guts,” Castillo added.

John Henry Cooper, JR February 8, 1958 – May 20, 2012 John Henry Cooper Jr., 54 of Silver Springs, FL, passed away peacefully at his home, Sunday, May 20th, 2012 with his family by his side. Born in Pontiac, Michigan, he was a resident of Florida since 1978. John was employed with Joshen Paper and Packing Company where he worked for 11 years. He was also a private thoroughbred horse breeder. He dedicated his life to care, love and breeding of thoroughbred horses. He was a member of The Florida Thoroughbred Breeders’ and Owners’ Association. He is survived by his devoted wife of 16 years, Marianne Cooper of Silver Springs, FL. In lieu of flowers, please make contributions to: The Florida Thoroughbred Charities, 801 SW 60th Ave, Ocala, Fla. 34474 THE FLORIDA HORSE • AUGUST 2012 59

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FLORIDA HORSE PARK

Five hundred unique acres right here in the heart of Florida

Something Really

Special

s we navigate through months and years of progress and development at the Florida Agriculture Center and Horse Park, it’s clearer to me all the time that we have something special here in the heart of Florida. We have a 500-acre gift in own backyard that is unlike anything else in the state, and perhaps unique to the rest of the world. Where can you tie up your shoe laces and go for a run on sweet pine needle-covered trails for miles and miles…and see a baby deer on your journey? Where can you bike under the shady coolness of grand-daddy oaks and choose to either tackle a mud puddle or steer clear and hit the more solid route? Where can you ride your horse on soft footing in a pristine environment and stumble upon a pair of nesting or hunting hawks or bald eagles? Where can you spend a Saturday afternoon watching international-level equestrian sports, with a glass of Southern sweet tea or pristine Silver Springs water in hand, together with your family? Where can you lease a solid, safe, steady horse to take you out on the trails for a leisurely ride with trusted outfitters? Where can you watch polo, compete in vari-

60 THE FLORIDA HORSE • AUGUST 2012

ous events, cheer on Olympians, or support your local pony clubbers? It’s right here at the Florida Agriculture Center and Horse Park. Last month, in addition to our regularly scheduled events, we put on an outdoor band concert as a fund raiser at the park that attracted everyone from dignitaries in high office to local trail riders, polo players, families with young children, equestrian clubs, the Marion Therapeutic Riding Association, and a plethora of new friends. By the end of the evening, we were all new contacts making fun new opportunities. Yes – the Florida Agriculture Center and Horse Park offers acres and acres of outdoor adventure. Miles and miles of fun. Right here in the heart of Florida. Come see us. Come ride with us. Come volunteer with us or sponsor us. You’ll be glad you did. Most sincerely, Connie Duff Wise President, Foundation for the Florida Horse Park

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Federal Regulation Good For Business?

centrated, has no background from which to draw that conclusion or apply it to any jurisdiction beyond New Mexico. Racing has its problems but is most certainly not “off the “Fleas can be taught nearly anything rails.” Nor, as another senator suggests, is it necessary for the Congress to complicate the issue with threats. that a Congressman can.” – Mark Twain Commerce Committee chairman Sen. Jay Rockeacing interests summoned before a Congressional committee last month and subsequent feller, a West Virginia Democrat, said that trainers caught statements made by two senators left the distinct using drugs like dermorphin or cobra venom should be impression that much danger is ahead. Federal involve- banned from the sport. Since states have failed to do so, ment in any aspect of enterprise, either public or private, Congress should step. Sen. Rockefeller is half right. by Paul Moran is always unwelcome and inevitably irreversible. Federal “In 1978, Congress passed the Interstate Horseracing regulation in its many forms is never good for business. Act into law, and as a result, racetracks around the counThe scrutiny of Congress is reason enough for concern. try have the benefit of simulcasting their racing signals While the sport’s various leaders and state-level regulatory and accepting interstate wagers,” Rockefeller said. “Deauthorities have long been unsuccessful in bringing about spite bestowing this unique status on the racing industry, standard practices and uniform medication rules, nothing Congress did not impose any standards that address the good will come from Federal intervention, which is now integrity of the sport, nor the welfare of jockeys, horses a clear and present danger encouraged by an agenda-dri- or fans. I am prepared to examine whether or not racetracks continue to deserve this unique federal privilege.” ven media without particular concern for fact. It is interesting that those who appear to have taken If timing is everything there are, unfortunately, some participants whose transgressions lend credence to those positions at the front line of this issue are politicians from who would cast racing in a sinister light. Recent exposure states that exist in racing’s backwater.Yet, this in an omiof the use of a potent opiate dermorphin by horsemen in nous threat that if carried out will bring the entire Amerthe Southwest has only emboldened those who would ican racing industry to its knees. Even while in the Congressional crosshairs, there is no deny the use of beneficial medications and have based arguments primarily on inaccurate conclusions drawn meaningful movement toward industry consensus on medfrom faulty data and presented to people unable to de- ication policy. The overwhelming majority of owners and trainers support the continued use of Lasix but has found oplineate between Ruidoso Downs and Saratoga. The medication issue goes far beyond Lasix and in many areas reform is long overdue. position from others, including the Jockey Club, the members of But lack of effective leadership and central authority, leaves the door ajar without a lock. which support its elimination Nothing good comes from Congress and its approval even while their horses permitted to race on medication. Sciratings suggest strongly that the Federal government has ence strongly supports the pro-Lasix argument.The opposidone poorly dealing with issues that its members are at tion comes mainly from people with nothing at stake. In an election year, racing interests may have some least in theory capable of understanding. Imagine the chaos that would potentially follow a spate of federal reg- time to unload the Congressional the gun as many lawulations passed by the ignorant at the suggestion, essen- makers become occupied to the politician’s raison d’être tially, of a leftist media driven by the influence of the -- job retention. But who will raise the torch? The medication issue goes far beyond Lasix and in many New York Times and various animal rights groups. At a Senate Commerce committee hearing last month areas reform is long overdue. But lack of effective leadership in Washington on “Medication and Performance En- and central authority, leaves the door ajar without a lock. It hancing Drugs in Horse Racing,” Sen. Tom Udall, a De- may be that Federal intervention is inevitable because the mocrat from New Mexico, said that despite its proud racing industry has failed so miserably to produce national leadership. The industry is vulnerable when the last thing it heritage, “horse racing has run off the rails.” Senator Udall, who represents the citizens of the state in needs is strangulation by Federal regulation with the noose which most of aforementioned dermorphin abuse is con- in the hands of a racing czar. That will be its demise. ■

62 THE FLORIDA HORSE • AUGUST 2012

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