HorseRacingBC

HorseRacingBC Serving the British Columbia horseracing community

In this issue!

Handicapper and author

www.horseracingbc.ca

Issue # 26

Spring Hopes Eternal

…

Bob Pandolfo

‘Pandycapping’ at ‘The Downs’

Bits & Bikes

Hastings Opening Day ...Saturday, April 16

Closing date for 2011 Early Stakes Nominations ...Thursday, March 24, Nomination Deadline for CTHS Sale Stakes: ...March 24th Remillard recovering Driver Tyler Remillard was operated on to repair damage to his collar bone and is resting at home.

Attention Breeders: Please be advised that all Stallions standing in BC must be registered with Standardbred Canada and Harness Racing BC.. Please contact the HRBC office for further information.

Kent Gilchrist writes about racing One of the good news stories about racing in British Columbia this year is that Kent Gilchrist will be writing about horseracing and its people in The Province newspaper.

Gilchrist, a long-time sports and racing writer in Vancouver, is one of the best in the business and his insight and humour will offer an important window into our sport for its fans.

Purse Hike at Woodbine Woodbine Entertainment Group and the Central Ontario Standardbred Association announced that effective Thursday, February 17, standardbred purses at Woodbine RacetrackandMohawkRacetrack will be raised.

In addition WEG Vice-President of Standardbred Racing Bruce Murray, announced “The Guaranteed Starter Bonus recently implemented on a trial basis at Woodbine, in which $300 is offered to starters that finish from sixth to last, is included in the purse increase.”

HorseRacingBC is owned and produced by Jim Reynolds.

For advertising and editorial contact: Jim Reynolds 604-533-4546 jimreynolds@uniserve.com

SEND YOUR PHOTOS. Soon the paddocks will be filled with mares and young champions and horsemen’s dreams. Send us your baby photos and be entered to win a free ad.

Pegasus Sale a Success

More than 300 people were on hand for the first Pegasus Thoroughbreds 2-year-olds in Training Sale February 15. Of the 19 2-year-olds that went through the sales ring, 17 sold for at total of $633,000, a $37,235 average price and a median of $30,000.

Topping the sale was a colt by English Derby winner North Light, who was purchased by Al and Sandee Kirkwood for $77,000.

Following closely at the sale-topper’s heels was a colt by Stormy Atlantic who was bought by trainer Jerry Hollendorfer for $75,000. Hollendorfer was the second-leading buyer, after signing for three individuals for a $155,000 total.

The highest priced filly sold was an El Corredor filly that was purchased by Southdown Bloodstock for $50,000. The Sierra Madre, Calif.-based Company was the sale’s leading buyer with four purchased totalling $164,000.

Dr. Mark Dedomenico and Glen Todd partnered to hold the sale at Dedomenico’s Pegasus Thoroughbreds Training and Rehabilitation Center in Redmond, Washington.

“Both Glen Todd and myself want to thank all who participated in making this event so successful,” said Dedomenico. “We are especially grateful to Mike Puhich and his crew for their outstanding job in preparing the horses for the sale.”

When asked if a 2012 sale would be considered, Dedomenico stated, “I am committed to doing anything that will get new people into our business.”

California entities purchased seven of the juveniles, with six going to homes in Canada and four bought by Washingtonians.

Issue # 26

www.horseracingbc.ca

Pandycapping by Bob Pandolfo…

Weak Cards vs Tough Cards

Pandycapping by Bob Pandolfo When the Meadowlands fall meet began, several players who comment on the internet boards complained about the quality of the cards. They want, or expect, full fields of top quality horses. I enjoy handicapping and betting weaker cards. There’s money to be made.

Sure, as a fan, it’s fun to watch classy horses compete in 10 horse fields. But the tough Saturday night cards during the winter at the Meadowlands can be difficult to handicap. There are races with 10 horses that all have a chance to win, and the horse that gets the best trip wins. I don’t like to bet horses hoping that my horse gets a trip. I look for horses that either have a class, form, or speed edge that is significant enough so that I can leave the driving to the driver.

With the weaker cards, you can eliminate horses and bet with more confidence. Now I know some of you are probably thinking, “Sure, it’s easier to handicap a weaker card but all you get are favorites.” Sometimes

that’s true, but not always. The bottom line is, if you’re patient, overlays are there for the taking.

Opening night at the Meadowlands, which was Friday, October 23, the Early Double paid $198.40, and the first Pick 3 paid over $2,000. After only 3 nights of racing, there were two $65.00 winners, a $63.00 winner, a horse that paid $135.40, an $83.00 winner, plus many other double-digit longshot winners.

Here are some things to look out for when trying to spot overlay and longshot winners at the Meadowlands.

Many horses simply prefer the two turn oval, or prefer the Meadowlands track surface. Consequently, some horses will show sharply improved form in their first start or two over the track. Look at each horse’s best final times over the past two years, or better yet, the horse’s record over the track. It’s not hard to figure out which horses like the track. Horses for courses, or horses that prefer two turns are two of the biggest longshot factors at the Meadowlands.

Another important factor at the Meadowlands is evaluating the shippers. The quality of the fields that the shipper has been racing in is important. On the weaker cards, horses are going to win shipping in from tracks that most players would consider to be weaker circuits.

That’s where the value comes in.

More important than the purse, or the circuit where the shipper comes

from, is the quality of the field. I race. I look for horses dropping out usually look over the names of the of races against these sharp horses. horses that the shipper recently Drops in class, sometimes competed with. apparently subtle, can offer clues to I’ll give you an example of what I big wake up longshots in the weaker mean. Recently a 10 year old gelding races. Let’s go back to Glors Boy. named Glors Boy dropped into a When he dropped from a $10,000 $5,000 claiming race at Pocono claimer to a $5,000 race and jogged, Downs. He won easily, then he you can bet that the horse that went stepped up to the $7,000 level and first over against him in that race was won easily again. As I write this up against it. That was a very tough he’s scheduled to race in the 4th $5,000 claiming race. at Pocono Downs on Wednesday, The players who follow their circuit November 03, up in class to $10,000 closely know which fields are weak off a claim. Now, those of you who or tough. The thing is, even weak follow racing have probably heard of cards and smaller tracks have some Glors Boys. He’s raced 241 times in fields that are surprisingly tough for his career and won 64 races for over the class level. Horses coming out of $600,000. When he was younger the tougher races are going to win he competed against Open caliber more often than horses coming out pacers at times. He loves Pocono of the weaker races.

Downs but has won at several other There are still some smart bettors tracks. The level he runs at is almost who are betting tracks like Freehold inconsequential, because Glors Boys and Monticello, even though the is always tough. purses are lower than they used to Regardless of the track I’m be. And during the fall meet at the handicapping, if a horse ships in Meadowlands there were smart which has recently butted heads bettors who hit some live overlays with Glors Boy, I’m going to pay and longshots. attention. Glors Boy is not your I’m not just saying this to put a typical $5,000 or $7,000 claimer, positive spin on harness racing. I he’s a classy horse. truly do enjoy handicapping and If you’re a weekend warrior who betting the weaker cards, and I also only bets a couple of times a month, like some of the smaller circuits. this is a big disadvantage. The And not just for betting longshots. players who follow the racing every Sometimes I’ll go for a favorite that day know who the tough horses are may be 8-5 at Monticello and should and they have a much better chance probably be 2-5. As much as I enjoy of hitting a longshot shipper. That’s watching the top horses compete, the one of the reasons why I’ve always most fun I have is cashing a winning advocated following the racing on ticket that puts me in the black for the a daily basis even if you don’t bet night. And that feels good whether every day. The best way to do this is it’s weak card at the Meadowlands to look at the result charts every day, or the first race at Freehold in the or better yet, save the result charts. dead of winter.

This is especially important if you concentrate your betting on To learn more about Bob one or two circuits.

Pandolfo’s systems and When I’m playing the weaker handicapping methodology, cards at the smaller tracks, I try to keep a close eye on the horses including the Harness Diamond at each track that are on a win System, go to www.trotpicks. streak, or racing extremely well. com or write to: Pandymonium When a horse has to compete in Publications, 3386 Creek Rd, one of these “key” races against Northampton, PA. 18067 a sharp claimer it can be a tough

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Doc Nick’s Vet Talk Foals grow. Everyone hopes that they grow straight with nice healthy straight legs. Most do but a small percentage develops bone or tendon related problems.

Tendon problems are usually noted by looking at the foal from the side. For example if the superficial flexor tendon is too tight or contracted then the foal becomes more upright in the fetlock and in severe cases can knuckle over at the fetlock.

Knuckling over at the tendon

If the deep flexor tendon is contracted then we notice that the foal becomes “clubby”. A club foot problem frequently develops at a very early age. It frequently occurs in only one foot and there may be a hereditary predisposition in some cases. If left untreated the opposite “normal” foot frequently becomes flat, losing some of it’s concave shape and widening out. Lameness may occur in this foot since it appears to bear more of the weight. The club foot tends to develop long heels and may be narrower. The constant and excessive pull of the deep digital flexor is the problem. It’s insertion within the hoof wall onto the coffin bone causes flexion of the coffin joint.

The attachment of the coffin bone to the hoof wall means that the hoof wall rotates as the coffin bone does. The net result is a more upright foot which in severe cases can even move past the vertical.

The stress with this conformation is at the toe. The tendon is pulling the coffin bone one way while the toe of the hoof wall is resisting the rotation since the toe of the hoof is still on the ground until

Issue # 26

Crooked Legs – Contracted Tendons

by Dr. Nick Kleider DVM

breakover. This results in tearing forces at the tip of the bone with changes occurring there that are noticed on x-rays.

These changes are a form of mild mechanical founder. Severe cases result in pedal osteitis, sort of a form of osteoporosis, which in turn predisposes the area to further bone disease such as marginal fractures. Mild cases can just be noted as different sized feet and x-rays are useful to assess the tip of the coffin bone.

We all know of mildly club footed horses that perform well and appear to be sound. With proper shoeing (supporting, not stretching the deep flexor) many of these horses can lead a productive life but eventually many do start to suffer resulting in a shorter period of productivity.

The treatment is controversial. If noticed early and it is affecting both front legs then weaning the foal early or decreasing the mares milk production is necessary. Curtailing any fast growth by decreasing the caloric intake is essential.

One theory (and only one of many) is that it’s not the tendons that are contracting but the bones are growing too fast and the tendon’s can’t catch up.

At an early age the growth plates below the deep digital flexor check ligament are still active so it’s “contraction” results in a club foot. In older foals the growth plates of the knee remain active and since the check ligament of the superficial digital flexor attaches above the knee and the insertion of the tendon is below the fetlock, contraction results in upright fetlocks. This doesn’t explain why with a club foot only one limb is frequently affected.

Corrective shoeing (glue on or acrylic extensions) and trimming the heels is based on the hope that the tendon’s can be stretched. In more severe cases this is difficult to achieve and can result in more pain and more severe contraction. The result is more tearing of the hoof wall attachment if the tendon doesn’t relax.

Bandaging of the involved limb(s) from hoof to elbow is useful in that a foal will use the bandage for support and the flexor muscles can relax.

Splinting is similarly effective.

Relieving the pain spasm cycle is important.

Pain from a foot bruise or infection can cause contraction since the limb is not being used. Non steroidal anti-inflammatories such as Banamine are useful but need to be used cautiously due to foals being susceptible to ulcers. Tetracycline is a first line medication and is used not for it’s antibiotic qualities but because it affects calcium metabolism in the muscle and causes relaxation.

Club foot before trimming and surgery

Club foot after surgery and podiatry

Surgery is a final option and is reserved for unresponsive or severe cases. Cutting the involved check ligament is the usual recommendation.

This usually resolves the problem as long as corrective shoeing is done simultaneously. This should be emphasized and coordinated with the farrier. I have seen several cases not respond due to insufficient trimming resulting in a scar with failure of the realignment.

Quotes, Facts & Fillers from the world of Horseracing Eventually the pool from which stewards were selected was extended beyond the registered blind, the chronically inbred and those whose ear trumpets or searing gout problems rendered them half-sharp or pathologically vicious.

Altotair Down Weekender (1994) The best doctor in the world is the veterinarian.

He can’t ask his patients what is the matter-he’s got to just know.

- Will Rogers Horse sense is the thing a horse has which keeps it from betting on people.

W. C. Fields

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Thoroughbred News

2011 Thoroughbred Breeding Season Training at Emerald Downs began Gets Help From Stallion Owners February 8 In an effort to help jump-start the breeding season some breeders are offering reduced stud fees for 2011. At North American Thoroughbred both Sir Gallovic and Texas Wildcatter are offered at the reduced fee of $1000. NATHC are also offering a $10,000 bonus to the breeder of the first stakes winner from either or both of their stallions.

Canmor Farms reduced its fees last year and again this year feeling this will help breeders bring their mares back to the breeding shed.

Pacific Stud has a slightly different approach offering a lifetime of free breeding to their proven sire ‘Skimming’ if you breed to him this year.

Both Todd and Neilsen feel a lot of the uncertainty for breeders has been overcome with the increase in the BC Bred Bonus to 25% in 2011 and the 25% increase to the breeding programs in British Columbia will stabilize the breeding industry in the future.

“We need to get breeders back in the business immediately as we feel there will be a shortage of young horses starting in 2012. We are just doing a small part to try to help the thoroughbred industry in BC,” says Todd.

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Portraits on location: horses & family portraits

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The 82-day Emerald Downs meet, which opens on April 15, will feature 29 stakes, including the 76th running of the $200,000 Longacres Mile (G3) on August 21. In addition, overnight purses will again be enhanced due to the generous contribution of the Muckleshoot Indian Tribe, which will keep those races very close to last year’s purse levels.

Something new this year is the addition of $100 purse monies to be allotted to each unplaced starter in all overnight purses. Emerald Downs and the Washington HBPA worked together to get this positive plan in motion.

“Horsemen have been so supportive at the entry box over the years, so this is a logical extension of that partnership,” said Adrian Buchan, Emerald Downs director of marketing. “The fact that we are able to give purse money to every starter is a positive way to kick off 2011 meeting,” he added.

Also, plans are being made to offer approximately three Quarter Horse races each week and the Auburn track is undergoing the necessary changes in its timing system in order to accommodate the short distance specialists.

Issue # 26

Mike Heads Appointed Executive Secretary of BCTOBA

The Board of Directors of B.C. Thoroughbred Owners and Breeders Association is pleased to announce the appointment of Mike Heads to the position of executive secretary.

Mike comes with many years of experience and an extensive knowledge of the Thoroughbred Industry. He has been on the management side of the business, as well as the horsemen’s side over the past twenty-five years which will prove invaluable in his new position. The directors feel fortunate to acquire a person with Mike’s background and experience. He is starting his new position immediately and will be available to assist all members of B.C. TOBA in all matters pertaining to Thoroughbred racing and breeding in B.C. Mike can be reached at: B.C. TOBA’s office – 604.575.8621 B.C. TOBA’S website – www.bctoba.com

www.horseracingbc.ca

SKIMMING

Issue # 26

Skimming by Nureyev - Skimble by Lyphard

A ‘LIFETIME’ OPPORTUNITY FOR SKIMMING BREEDERS Introducing your opportunity to own a lifetime breeding right to British Columbia’s leading sire, Skimming (Nureyev-Skimble

by Lyphard) .

Pacific Stud is announcing an exciting and unique program for breeders in British Columbia. By breeding to Skimming in 2011 breeders will have a chance to earn a lifetime breeding right to the stallion.

All you have to do is contract to breed a mare to Skimming in 2011 and pay your stud fee after the foal stands and nurses and you will have earned a breeding right to Skimming for the remainder of his breeding life for no additional fees.

That means he is FREE to you for the 2012 breeding season and beyond. It’s an opportunity you can’t pass up!

Skimming had led all BC stallions in progeny earnings in both his first two seasons at stud in the province and early this season he’s back on top for a third consecutive year as his son All Saint (dam by Free House) has already won two stakes races.

And if all that isn’t enough to peak your interest there is no time like the present to own and breed a BC-bred as increased incentives are on the books beginning in 2011.

Call Pacific Stud for more information and a chance to own a piece of a proven Grade One stallion. Inquiries can be made to Roxanne Sargent at (604) 309-1786. Skimming stands for $4,000 live foal.

SKIMMING Winning the Pacific Classic by 2 lengths over Tiznow

By the English Champion Nureyev, Skimming’s breeding is second to none and he has produced G1 Stakes winner of $581,120 Johnny Eves.

As a race horse he won the G1 Pacific classic twice.

He currently sits as BC’s leading sire for 2011 and his son All Saint won the $35,000 Cotton Fitzimmons Mile at Turf Paradise (1 mile in 1:34.44) and the 1 1/16th Turf Paradise Hcp.

Pacific Stud

1397 Charlotte Rd. N. Vancouver, BC V7J 1H1 604-782-6296 Fax (604) 987- 6124

Acceptable

Capote — Ms. Teak Wood, by Woodman By the best bred Stallion in British Columbia, Acceptable’s 2011 babies are OUTSTANDING!

www.horseracingbc.ca

Issue # 26

Canada’s Standardbred Horse of the Year: Dreamfair Eternal

Photo-courtesy-New-Image-Media

Dreamfair Eternal was named Canada’s Older Pacing Mare of the Year and Horse of the Year at the annual O’Brien Awards dinner January 29.

Sunday

March Racing Calendar

Monday

Tuesday

1

Wednesday

2

Thursday

3

6

7

8

9

10

13

14

15

16

17

Prince Elim $15,000

Friday

4 Harness the Hope (In Support of Breast Cancer Research)

11

18

20

21

22

23

24

27

28

29

30

31

Marion Young Final $15,000

Princess Elim $15,000

5

Announcements 12

Princess Final $20,000

19 Wendell Smith Elim. $7,500

Prince Final $20,000

Marion Young Elim. $7,500

Saturday

25

26

Wendell Smith Final $15,000

Wednesday is Seniors Day at the Downs Fridays: 7.00 p.m.

Saturday March 12 – Big Screen Events – Vancouver Canucks @ Calgary Flames Post Times Saturdays: 1:15 p.m.

Saturday March 26 – Big Screen Events - UFC Fight Night 24 Live Sundays: 1:15 p.m.

Attention Breeders:

Please be advised that all Stallions standing in BC must be registered with Standardbred Canada and Harness Racing BC. Please contact the HRBC office for further information.

www.horseracingbc.ca

Stakes Winners in February

Spartan Law with trainer/driver Scott Knight wins the $35,000 Mr Vancouver

Multiflora Hanover with J Brandon Campbell wins the Miss Onager Claiming Series Final.

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Issue # 26