No runners for Saratoga!

We started with seven 2-yr. olds who could have been ready to race in Saratoga. One we decided to sell. One we tried to sell but didn’t even get the reserve price. One had injured hocks. Two were deemed not mature enough to go to the track yet and two were sent to Linda’s stable at Belmont to train for Saratoga.

Hayfield got off the van and the next morning it was discovered that she had a stress fracture of her tibia. She’s at Dr.Patty Hogan’s recovering. Figure 90 days until she can resume training.

After the Triple Crown victory, we visited FlatteryWillGetYou. Yesterday, we visited again to wish her well as she travels to Patty Hogan’s for diagnosis of the problems in her knee discovered when she came up lame a few days before. So, we’re “0” for 7. How discouraging!

She’s a beauty but we’ll see how long she’ll need to deal with her issues.

So, no runners for Saratoga… unless we claim someone. Hear the Footsteps ran 4th Friday for his current owners. He’s 8 years old. We’ll see.

Now we let the real world intrude for a moment. You may remember that we had a horse named Holy Blitzer. This year we named a horse, Blitzer Too. Blitzer was the nickname of James Balitsos, Sr. He loved the ponies, and all sorts of sports gambling. He was full of life until the end. We lost him last week. Here he is with his son, my friend, partner and business associate. Where else but at the racetrack!

Senior, I know you never forgot me, after we met when I was stark naked in the locker room of your golf club! I’ll never forget you for all your humor and outspoken views on politicas and life, in general. I know your family will never forget you. May you be at peace and have lots of winners!