BELMONT DAY TAKEOUTS FOR A HILLBILLY
Give the New York Racing Association a lot of credit for hosting an outstanding day of racing on June 10. What a card! I think overall the magnificent day was a little like a visit to my Granny’s house for Sunday dinner. She always overcooked so we could take a little something home with us. So let’s enjoy the taste of the leftovers.
First we talk three-year old males. Tapwrit displayed a big, late kick and looked like the winner some thought he always was. The division has some talented runners and some balance for sure. Does that mean this is not a good crop? Hardly. It just means the group is very competitive.
So how about Mike Smith? Whoever said old guys can’t compete was WRONG! Those of us closer to the sport know “big money Mike” is the man and who cares if he is 51. Five wins on the day is incredible for any jockey on any day. To win five races on that kind of racing day…Woosh! Yes, the hall of fame rider was aboard some great stock, but his skill as a rider was shining bright as he guided them to the circle of winners.
Abel Tasman might be the best three-year old in current training. Her powerful win in the Acorn means she took two of the Triple Tierra races and the Kentucky Oaks triumph was no fluke. With Unique Bella still not back to the track yet and the male division in its current state, you gotta give her the just due!
Bob Baffert pulled a Pete Rose and went 4 for 4. Four starters, (West Coast, American Anthem, Abel Tasman, Mor Spirit) in four races with four trips to the winner’s circle. Best on the West coast and best on the East coast on Belmont day. Maybe that means he is just simply the best???
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