…but then, he gets claimed. Delta Outlaw was on or near the lead all of the way under Martin Garcia. It seemed like he was fading coming around the stretch turn but Garcia urged him on and he responded. He put away his nearest competitor but then Linda’s horse, Professor Snape the 3-5 favorite managed to just get past him a few strides before the wire. It was a photo-finish, but we lost by a head.

We generally form attachments to our horses. However, the claiming game often see the horses with us for only a short time, too short to get to know them. Nonetheless, Goodbye Delta, we’ll miss you.

Another Genius left for her new home. I expect to find out where she’ll be soon, when the farm writes to me. Genius, you were better than I thought you’d be, winning your first two races. Then, something went wrong. You were never really a horse with a warm personality but we did know you, since you were a weanling. Goodbye and good luck in a new career.

For us, this is a long stretch of racing. It continues Wednesday, when Linda brings Ransom Note back for a six furlong allowance race. She’s putting him in a tough position, since he hasn’t raced in six months, but maybe he’ll surprise under Irad Ortiz.

On Saturday, Assaf plans to start 2-yr. old Hot Possebility, for the first time. Martin Garcia has ridden her in the morning and maybe he can guide her to a good finish.

On Sunday, he’s planning to run Hay Field again, who’s still looking for her first win after several second place finishes. Good luck, Hay Field, you deserve a victory!

Love Code arrived in Virginia yesterday. We’ll visit him in two weeks. Can’t wait to see him again!