Former Press Democrat horse racing handicaper Bill Nichols shares his opinion on past and upcoming races. The Press Democrat is trying to find out if there is a local interest in the sport. So please respond with your own opinions about the posted comments, either for or against, and offer your own questions so others can share their opinions. ...
Horse of the Year Curlin took his first steps on Santa Anita Park's new Pro Ride surface Wednesday morning. Assistant trainer Scott Blasi, who has been handed the reigns so to speak, will be in charge of Curlin's work schedule during his stay in Southern California. According to Daily Racing Form correspondent Jay Privman, Blasi said Curlin seemed to do fine after galloping over the artificial surface. Majority owner Jess Jackson says he will enter Curlin in the upcoming Breeders' Cup Classic - he's the defending champ by the way - at the end of the month if Curlin does well on the surface. The 4-year-old colt has never raced on an artificial surface and will ultimately make the final decision if he will defend his title. Privman pointed out that Curlin got the royal treatment with Santa Anita President Ron Charles and Executive Vice President of Oak Tree Racing Association Sherwood Chillingworth welcoming Curlin, who this last weekend became the all-time wage earner in horse racing history. Blasi, who is filling in for head trainer Steve Asmussen, said Curlin will work a half mile on Monday and is scheduled for works the following two Monday's leading up to the Breeders' Cup Classic. ...
Anytime
