CALLING JACKSON’S BLUFF
By Ray Paulick
Jess Jackson could have waited until Friday night at 9 o’clock or so to send out a press release anouncing his regrets for not pointing Rachel Alexandra to the April 3 Apple Blossom at Oaklawn Park. Oaklawn owner Charles Cella had proposed increasing the Apple Blossom’s purse to $5 million if Jackson’s 2009 Horse of the Year and the unbeaten two-time champion mare Zenyatta were both in the starting lineup for the race.
That’s what the president of Toyota did—schedule a press conference for 9 p.m. on a Friday night–to respond to mounting public outrage over safety problems with cars produced by the world’s leading automotive manufacturer. Spin doctors always advise their clients to put bad news out late on a Friday to get the lowest possible publicity and media coverage.
But not Jess Jackson. He had the courage to send out a press release at the end of the business day on a Wednesday, when most racetracks East of the Mississippi were closed due to blizzard conditions. His press release was very clever, too, utilizing an old-fashioned smokescreen—a grand proposal for a three-race series between the two distaffers—to obscure the fact Rachel Alexandra would skip the Apple Blossom. To make matters worse, he made trainer Steve Asmussen the fall guy who had to deliver the bad news: ““Out of respect for the level of competition and the importance of this race, I have told Mr. Jackson it was not in the best interest of the horse to race on April 3,” Asmussen was quoted as saying in the press release. “Getting to this level of fitness after a six-month layoff takes time. If all goes according to schedule, and we do not have any further weather delays, the earliest we could have a prep race would be the middle of March. It is then not fair to Rachel to ask her to race again three weeks later.”
I could be wrong, but I think that’s the most Jackson has allowed Asmussen to say since the California winemaker bought Rachel Alexandra after her victory in the Kentucky Oaks last spring.
But the confusing part of the release was Jackson’s statement that the proposed racing series between Rachel Alexandra and Zenyatta has been “in the works for several weeks.” If that’s the case, why did Jackson indicate even the slightest bit of interest when Cella proposed the Apple Blossom purse increase?
Also, why is Jackson suddenly relying on the National Thoroughbred Racing Association to put something together? The NTRA owns no racetracks, has no authority over tracks, stakes schedules or race conditions, and doesn’t even have any juice left with television networks.
If anything, Jackson should be asking the Breeders’ Cup—not the NTRA–for assistance in putting the series together and promoting it, since racing fans hope the two fillies will remain sound throughout 2010 and eventually go head-to-head in either the Breeders’ Cup Classic or Ladies’ Classic this fall at Churchill Downs. A series of races betweem the two leading up to the Breeders’ Cup would be in that organization’s best interests, and the Breeders’ Cup does have stronger ties to ESPN for broadcast opportunities.
Finally, if the proposal by Jackson was genuine, why on earth were Jerry and Ann Moss not even mentioned in the press release. As Zenyatta’s owners, I think they might want to have some say in this proposed series.
Sorry, Jess, but I’m calling your bluff.
Copyright © 2010, The Paulick Report
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Tags: Ann Moss, Apple Blossom, Breeders' Cup, breeders' cup classic, Breeders' Cup Ladies' Classic, Charles Cella, espn, jerry moss, jess jackson, kentucky oaks, National Thoroughbred Racing Association, NTRA, oaklawn park, Rachel Alexandra, steve asmussen, Toyota, zenyatta
February 11th, 2010 at 7:30 am
So did Rachel tell Jess Jackson that this was the way she wanted to go?? Since they don’t make any decisions about the races for her until SHE tells them she is ready?
February 11th, 2010 at 7:47 am
Is Rachel goin rogue?
February 11th, 2010 at 7:48 am
You are such a sour puss, Ray. Always with the negative vibes. Here we have a good owner and you still trash ‘em.
Jackson’s Bluff…sounds like a great name for 2 HOY’s first foal!
February 11th, 2010 at 7:58 am
The 3 race series sounds very phony. Just pick one race, and be there. If she is ready around April 30th, then pick a race that weekend.
Jackson is the guy who bleed stracks like Monmouth for an extra $250,000. These tracks in NY and NJ are in serious financial trouble.
Now he turns down $5 million for 9f against mares only.
Lots of bull coming from Jackson. Just pick a race and announce it
February 11th, 2010 at 7:59 am
Geez Ray, are you back in bed with Breeders Cup now that they’re a sponsor? Likely the reason for Jackson’s choice of associations is that Alex Waldrop at least has genuine integrity unlike his counterpart at BC. You had a good run at honest journalism. Guess it doesn’t pay too well.
February 11th, 2010 at 8:00 am
It never seemed possible or probable to me that she would run in the Apple Blossom for two reasons-not enough time to get ready and the outright stupidity it would have taken on Assmussen’s part to run there off a 6 month layoff. Against the Breeder’s Cup Classic winner who hasn’t missed a beat? Come on.
More likely, they will take a page out of Zenyatta’s book and run against a bunch of brown horses at the Fairgrounds to tune up and then go head to head.
I love Zenyatta, thought she was horse of the year, so I am not an apologist for Rachel, but anyone who has trained horses knew there was no way you bring the fight to a fitter opponent right out of the box.
As far as who gets to be the “pimp”, the Breeder’s Cup/ESPN deserve nothing. ESPN’s coverage of the 2 Triple Crown races pale in comparison to NBC’s. and I hope that NBC/Comcast is still interested in reacquiring them when the ESPN contract is over.
Thank you Jess Jackson for allying yourself with the better partner.
February 11th, 2010 at 8:02 am
Jackson is one of those curious sorts of millionaires who relishes throwing down the proverbial gauntlet.
Like you, Ray, I’m not buying this proposal. He schemes for “weeks” on this idea, yet they can’t get the horse ready. True, she’s been on a 5 month layoff, butbut did she really “need” to be on layoff that long?
As I noted in my previous posts, this is just an ego talking & wanting to have things his way, on his terms, etc. If the Mosses & Shirreffs reject any part of it, Jackson gets to shout “CHICKEN.”
It all seems pointless and a lightning rod for the kooks to debate, because I have bigger and better racing to to ponder right now without getting drawn into the childish rantings that seem to come when Rachel Alexandra are mentioned in one breath.
February 11th, 2010 at 8:04 am
I have to call you on this one, Ray. With the length of RA’s lay-up, and the fact that she has only breezed twice, simple horsemanship dictates that it is entirely unreasonable to expect her to be ready to run an “A” race at the beginning on April. Most horses can’t run their best until the third race off a vacation; and make no mistake, Steve, Scott, and Mr. Jackson know it will take an “A” race to beat Zenyatta. To rush her into the Apple Blossom would have been foolish. And as for Steve being the fall guy, if I had to guess, Mr. Jackson told Steve he wanted to run, and Steve had to explain why it was a bad idea, and really not possible. Thats why Steve is a horse trainer and Mr. Jackson is a wine maker. Steve may want a bottle of 2009 Chardonay, but if its not ready, ITS NOT READY.
February 11th, 2010 at 8:16 am
Notwithstanding the Jackson shills above, I think if you presented your thesis as the closing argument before any jury, Jackson would be found guilty on all counts for shameless flimflamming. It is a shame that RA had to end up in such sanctimonious hands.
If all owners could be a classy as the Mosses, racing would be blessed.
February 11th, 2010 at 8:17 am
Sad to say, but Mr. Jackson may be setting us up, just like he did with Curlin. In the fall of 2008, Curlin was starting to tail off in his performances at the track. But to get Horse of the Year, he had to show up at the Breeders Cup. Jackson then started whining loudly about the synthetic track, giving a ready made excuse for Curlin’s poor performance. Before the Cup, Curlin had a workout on the synthetic surface that in the minds of all who were there was excellent. He handled the surface just fine. But when he performed poorly in the race, Jackson trotted out his synthetic track excuse and people bought it, making Curlin Horse of the Year. In a similar fashion, with his “she’ll tell us when she is ready” line, Jackson may be preparing us for the possibility that RA, whose last race, like Curlin’s was a desperate finish, tailed off late in the year and may never get back to the sensational form that she had earlier in 2009. I wish it were not so, and I wish she was as good this year as last. But I fear that she is not and may not race again. As any trainer will tell you, a campaign like Rachel’s as a three year old usually takes a terrific amount out of a horse and few come back to form.
February 11th, 2010 at 8:19 am
Say what you want, but Jess has the health of his racer at the top of the list. Would any of the critics in the cheap seats care to watch a replay of Ruffian in 2010? Case closed…..unless you are one salivating for at least one spectacular crash in Sunday’s Daytona 500.
February 11th, 2010 at 8:21 am
We have an old saying here in Kentucky — The guilty dog barks the loudest — and Mr. Jackson is whimpering awfully loud.
February 11th, 2010 at 8:23 am
Turning to NTRA and Alex Waldrop to get something done… Lord help me Thanks for exposing this sham. We all know RA can’t go a mile and a quarter.
February 11th, 2010 at 8:28 am
DonW….. i was at SA for the days leading up to Curlins BC, and I distinctly remember reporters asking Steve and Scott how Curlin breezed on the poly….and the word “excellent” was never used….. Steve very cautiosly said that the horse “seemed ok” on it. I mean he breezed a half in 49 and 4. How much can you learn?? Its the same as breezing turf horses on dirt, and vice versa…. breezing a half and running in a race are very, very different.
I mean, I agree that Curlin was tailing off a bit, but there is still no doubt he didn’t handle the poly. It was the same as that turf race they ran him in at belmont, where he was second… had no finish to him.
February 11th, 2010 at 8:32 am
Great Scott. Is this grounds for impeachment of Rachel as Horse of the Year?
Most certainly cause for censure of Jackson for turning his proprietary stake into a flip-flopping, cynical, gotcha, Nixonian-style repartee.
How about some straight talk.
February 11th, 2010 at 8:37 am
I agree with you Ray! Anyone who listens to Jackson soon realizes he a mostly full of bs. Yes Rachel is coming off a long layoff and probably would not be at her best come April 3, but yet she can win the Oaks then come back 15 days later and win the Preakness against colts? She was more fit then, but if he is working on a 3 race series, then why not make the Apple Blossom the first in that series? Jackson wants the series on his own terms and I hope the Moss’s don’t give an inch. IF there is such a series, this should be the first, then another at either Del Mar or Saratoga and the finale at Churchill in the Breeder’s Cup. This won’t happen but Jackson loves the public eye and is blowing more smoke to the racing public, making them think he is a great owner.
Stay in course, Ray. You are on the mark with this one!!
February 11th, 2010 at 8:39 am
“appologies to the Cat in the Hat” Not in the Apple Blossom. Not in the Breeders Cup. Not on the plastic track. Not on the Dirt. Not on the grass nor on the mud. Not near the ocean there might be a flood. Not in Dubai nor at Royal Ascot Not off a lay off nor after another race I the Great Jackson just will not race. That Zenyatta will beat me either near or far so I’m going to hide Miss Rachel from all of the greats. If I can find a Grade 1 with no competition like Quality Road did then we will race again. So long as I don’t hook the likes of Gio Ponti or Vodka not Ventura or Life is Sweet nor Goldikova or that pesky plastic trained horse Zenyatta.
February 11th, 2010 at 8:40 am
If Zenyatta ever refuses to ship to run on dirt she’ll be castigated for the same ploy what got Rachel HOY.
February 11th, 2010 at 8:51 am
You’re spot on — that if Jackson was really serious — and if Breeders Cup at Churchill is the climax — Breeders Cup is the obvious vehicle to manage the proposed Trifecta
February 11th, 2010 at 8:53 am
I for one would like to see these two square off with both in top form. No excuses. Let Quality Road join the party.
It’s horse racing after all… but for once it would be nice to get it RIGHT.
February 11th, 2010 at 8:57 am
Jay Holden, while I fully DISagree with your point, that was a pretty impressive little post.
February 11th, 2010 at 8:58 am
There’s no bigger gasbag in racing, or, perhaps, all of sports, than Jess Jackson. I agree completely with this piece, the point of which is to focus on Jackson’s attempts to manipulate the media and public opinion. In a matter of days after Oaklawn’s announcement, he squashed the potential Apple Blossom showdown despite apparently expressing sufficient interest for Charles Cella to make an offer that met all of his terms. I take no issue with the fact that Rachel won’t race at Oaklawn because she isn’t ready. But Jackson’s absurd grandstanding for a series that hasn’t even been discussed with the Mosses is a pitiful attempt to distract the media and public from the fact that he is the one preventing the Apple Blossom showdown.
February 11th, 2010 at 9:04 am
Hard to believe there is so much venom against Jess Jackson from a bunch of know nothing whiners.
No trainer in his right mind runs against the nuts off a layoff.
Both horses should get a gimme race against inferior competition (just like Zenyatta did all year long last year except once, and please remember, I thought Zenyatta should be HOY).
Then let the Churchill Downs, Saratoga/Belmont, and Breeder’s Cup tri begin.
Prediciton-Zenyatta wins first because of fitness advantage/bounce on Rachel’s part, Rachel wins rounds 2 and 3.
February 11th, 2010 at 9:06 am
Mr. Jackson and Mr. Moss need to map out a schedule for each horse that finds RA and Z meeting up in the fall and then in the Breeders Cup. Suffolk Downs should step up and offer a big purse for the two the meet in the MASS Cap on a neutral track.
February 11th, 2010 at 9:12 am
As I said on the other thread … after the long layoff RA has had, there is no excuse for JJ and SA to have not had her ready for the Apple Blossom … irregardless of whether or not Zenyatta came out of retirement. It’s the first major F&M race of the year, and even if the long term goal is to run her against the boys most of the year, the Apple Blossom would have been an ideal place to start a campaign.
Zenyatta’s camp has been getting her ready since they announced she would stay in training, and she has had a shorter layoff. There’s no excuse JJ, you should have been planning for this race all along.
February 11th, 2010 at 9:12 am
Ace #23 — speaking of “know nothing whiners” — you’ve exposed yourself. Why would Churchill and Belmont want to orchestrate any distraction to the Triple Crown, which is their Holy Grail? Go back to your marketing 101 primers my friend.
As far as Jackson, the vents here are more about style than substance — and in this department, the Emperor surely has no clothes.
February 11th, 2010 at 9:15 am
C’mon guys…these are 2 phenomenal TBs with interesting character connections. Lighten up on RA…sins of the father (owner, trainer?) kind of idea. She’s a great horse, so is Z.
Is the proposal from Jackson a tad lame???? Yep! NTRA??? Puhleeze! As mentioned, the Moss’s and Jackson should work with an agreed timeline, tracks stakes schedules and committ to being there with as many competitors as possible barring injuries of either mare, including the BC. Don’t need the NTRA for that. Granted, Jackson is a control freak but the NTRA??? What a waste of space.
I’m still confused as to why RA (and I like and respect her immensely) isn’t “ready”. Gee, anyone think she really was more than just tired/spent after that spectacular, albeit shortend campaign?
February 11th, 2010 at 9:19 am
I totally agree with Dray33 - no plan - no series exclusive to them - just show up at some of the major races (who could sweeten the pot with purse increases) and run against ALL comers. Male, female, gelding - no optimizing anyone’s chances - just run and let the best horse win.
That’s what horse racing is all about, after all. And I’d love to see Zenyatta, Rachel and Quality Road (plus whoever else might jump into the limelight) competing for all the bragging rights throughout the year.
But Jackson will have to accept that he cannot play puppet master this time. He either runs against Zenyatta and all comers - or Rachel’s reputation for the upcoming season will suffer. He can’t say he wants to race Zenyatta and then take his filly and go home if the races don’t play excactly to his specifications.
While I kind of understand him not sending Rachel to the AB, it makes you wonder if he has as much confidence in her ability to beat Z as he blusters about. If he truly thinks Rachel’s the greatest ever - then just run her and let the chips fall where they may. Any attempt to tinker and give his filly an advantage tells me that he’s a little worried she might not be able to win.
As a poster in another thread said - if it quacks……
February 11th, 2010 at 9:20 am
hey Tom, irregardless isn’t a word in the english language. Not sure what you mean.
February 11th, 2010 at 9:22 am
#26-DelMar Don:
“speaking of “know nothing whiners” — you’ve exposed yourself. Why would Churchill and Belmont want to orchestrate any distraction to the Triple Crown, which is their Holy Grail? Go back to your marketing 101 primers my friend. ”
(1) The Jackson bashing is getting a bit tiresome.
(2) CD and Bel might want those mares on the card because the TC may actually stink this year…not a whole heck of alot to choose from (although there is potential)…depending on the shake out for the TC, watching those mares go at it would be more than worth the price of admission. As for marketing, “Double your pleasure, double your fun”? TC races with match races with full fields…sounds good to me.
February 11th, 2010 at 9:26 am
Well thats jess> the ruler of racing…Just who does he think he is? He was a xxxxx back then & now he thinks he is the queen of sheba.What the hell does the ntra have to do with this?I really feel sorry for Steve & Co..Back in 2008 at Saratoga I told Steve that he should train JESS to be an owner & your the Trainer..
February 11th, 2010 at 9:36 am
#30 D. Masters (the TC may actually stink this year…)
A little early for the above projection, but I share your angst this time every year as of late, especially with the trend against active two-year campaigns. It seems, however, that a good storyline — and hero — seems to emerge virtually every first Saturday in May.
It would indeed be double the fun card to have a R-Z card in the Triple Crown mix, however, it seems prudent (and the economic arguments are there as evidenced by the Apple Blossom) to create a separate track — pre-Derby and mid-Summer — leading up to the Breeders Cup, the first two at tracks that aren’t part of the Triple Crown sweepstakes. To this end, Jackson has an obligation to put some markers in the ground if he is serious. This past year, this mode of operation was to choose his races with just days to call — seemingly to avoid tougher competition.
February 11th, 2010 at 9:50 am
Ray, you are always dead on!
February 11th, 2010 at 10:04 am
I’m with you Ray, this is just the newest smokescreen-marketing ploy, made up by a rich owner who has to be in control at all times. And as for Steve A, I guess this is the price you pay for having a star in the barn with this type of owner. Realistically, as slow as Rachel’s training has been going, the Apple Blossom was never seriously considered I’m sure. And I just have to laugh everytime I read that racing Rachel is “what the fans want, what the tracks want” blah, blah blah, if Jess jackson was concerned about keeping the fans happy, then why did Rachel have her own security guard making sure no fan could get a picture of the great Rachel? I have been around a long time and have never seen this before. This is not a “friendly” gesture. If you have access to the backside, then you should be able to take a snapshot of a horse, even if it is from many feet away. Not with Jess’s guarddog around. For those who couldn’t see through JJ before, he is now coming across as a joke. He knows how hard it is to agree on ONE RACE, it will probably be impossible to agree on three! And what is this about MONEY??? I don’t get why he even MENTIONS MONEY! My guess is , it’s not about the money to the Mosses, but it is to Jess Jackson. He has a commodity, ( sorry Rachel, you don’t deserve this) and he is going to market it under the guise of “what the fans want”, till the cows come home. Mr. Jackson, we want to see Rachel race, provided she is sound and happy, and we want her to at some point meet Zenyatta and we want to see a great race. Please be quiet and let the horses do the talking.
February 11th, 2010 at 10:10 am
I believe a 5 race match up over varying surfaces, reasonable classic distance with a full field across sex, age, etc throughout the year would be the best and most satisfying challenge ending at the BC.
In fact, wouldn’t it be great to see if the trainers could acheive a complete year of racing with these great mares and let the chips fall where they may. I’ve never been a big believer in the one-race settles it all.
February 11th, 2010 at 10:10 am
Ya let’s have the Breeder’s Cup promote it.Having the Breeder’s Cup 2 years in a row at Santa Anita has turned more racing fans against it than anything in the history of racing.Just at the local betting parlor here I saw many who would not gamble on The Breeder’s Cup last year.The Breeder’s Cup has become the Restricted Breeder’s Cup for the rich and well to do.
February 11th, 2010 at 10:15 am
I don’t know if this will help, but for the very last time, no trainer in his right mind, none, not Charlie Whittingham (who I worked for), not Bobby Frankel, nobody in his right mind would rush Rachel Alexandra back to run against a fitter Zenyatta.
Get it?
Jess Jackson didn’t call this play, Steve A. did, so lets stop the Jess Jackson bashing and get ready to rumble in April at CD.
February 11th, 2010 at 10:20 am
I have no quarrel with Rachel Alexandra not running in the Apple Blossom. If she’s not ready, then she’s not ready.
But, wasn’t that clear to absolutely everyone? Why did JJ even pretend he was entertaining the option? I think it’s because he likes to string everyone along.
As far as a three-race series. Great idea. Now contact the Mosses and see if y’all can point to the same races. Don’t do that crap last year where you listed three options, watited to see who would enter where and who would offer more money, then made your decision at the last possible moment.
Map out a schedule. Announce it. Tell everyone that they should keep in mind that even if it’s on the schedule you’re not guaranteeing she’ll run because of course, it does depend on how she’s doing.
Trainers map schedules every single year to get to the Derby and to the BC. Do it. Do your best to stick to it. Let the chips fall where they may.
You don’t need to create excitement with “dramatic” last-second announcements of where she’ll run. Your horse, Mr. Jackson, creates the excitement on her own just fine.
February 11th, 2010 at 10:22 am
ace…agree to a sensible schedule for these mares. And if, just if it coincides with a major race day, all the better.
Still don’t understand why 6 months is not enough conditioning time if she was truly JUST tired and not suffering some minor, albeit serious soft tissue injury. I agree with being cautious for any horse.
February 11th, 2010 at 10:29 am
I have to concur with #34 Susan’s remark of: “I don’t get why he even MENTIONS MONEY! My guess is, it’s not about the money to the Mosses, but it is to Jess Jackson.”
It does beg the question why always cite the money? Focus on the dates and venues that work first then worry about the purse amount. Further rather the make it the tracks problem to fund it I’d expect both to help explore how the event can be marketed and self-funded.
Frankly if they both met up for $150,000 the fan interest would be almost same as it would if it was a $10M. The latter just might garner some added press coverage like a two-line blurb in Sports Illustrated - wow, can you imagine! ;>
To all those who are quick to equally rip both Jackson and Rachel Alexandra you really need to view these apart. Her not being likely 100% ready for such an intense race is one issue. This vision of a Triple play is something else.
Coordinating in tandem with the Moss family any meetings of the two horses should be the plan - not working with the NTRA first, then expecting the Moss family to just accept what was already determined.
As Ray pointed out Oaklawn is not an NTRA member so if JJ has long wanted to work with the NTRA then you knew the Oaklawn proposal - and bless their heart for putting together a great proposal - was doomed to fail.
I frankly don’t see another single pot of money like the Apple Blossom Invitational proposed being offered again which will only irk JJ all the more. In case its been lost somewhere NYRA says it will run out of money this year so while perhaps a Saratoga could be bumped up in the total purse don’t hold out for “millions”.
February 11th, 2010 at 10:31 am
Oh for gosh sakes, Rachel wasn’t going to be in her top fitness form by April 3rd, which some of us were bright enough to realize. She’ll need at least a race or two before she’ll be ready to face Zenyatta.
February 11th, 2010 at 10:35 am
Lets see if Churchill Downs steps up now and have a showdown on Oaks day.
February 11th, 2010 at 10:35 am
@ #24 Paul Revere said “Suffolk Downs should step up and offer a big purse for the two the meet in the MASS Cap on a neutral track.”
Maybe they will, least its forgotten by anyone that Mr. Field proposed a $5M purse in 2008 for Curlin to meet up with Big Brown in the MassCap.
http://therail.blogs.nytimes.com/2008/06/05/big-brown-vs-curlin-for-5-million/
February 11th, 2010 at 10:41 am
I’m surprised at all the whining about having the two meet so early in the year. Kudos for CC for making the attempt to get the two stars to Oaklawn. But be realistic–a horse coming off a long layoff needs to get back into gear–why throw RA against Zenyatta without a race under her belt this year? And if she were to lose (blasphemous coming from me!) the question would always be “was she really ready?”
No, allow the RA camp to get her started, then find wonderful, historic races to have the two meet up (Pimlico Special anyone? Maryland could use the boost if there is still racing by that time). I expect they’ll end up facing older males (just how many fillies and mares are going to be added to the mix–very few I’d expect). Maybe they’ll get to meet up with Quality Road when he’s on top of his game.
If someone wants to make comments, how about QR not appearing again till the end of May??? Over three months off? Does he really need a layoff? When people question RA’s campaign last year (this was a 3yo filly for heavens sake), she crammed more into a campaign than most of the top male handicap horses over the past few decades have in a year.
I think people should just sit back and enjoy once the girls get rolling. . .
February 11th, 2010 at 10:49 am
Hey Ray…Why would Charlie Cella NOT move the race to Oaklawn’s closing weekend as JJ requested. Bluff calling over the $5 mil or bluff calling over Rachel’s readiness and willingness to participate.
February 11th, 2010 at 10:55 am
I really don’t get all the venom against Jackson. His decisions about Rachel’s races gave her the opportunity to become HOY. If the Mosses had been as canny, Zenyatta might have won.
The Apple Blossom was Cella’s idea, not Jackson’s nor Asmussen’s, and if, as Tisnowbaby says, “trainers map out schedules every single year…” maybe a race against Zenyatta as early as April 3 wasn’t something they were ever considering.
Jay Holden - Rachel does just fine in the mud - she won the KY Oaks by 20 lengths on a muddy track. It was Zenyatta whose connections decided to skip the Louisville Distaff on KY Oaks day because the track was wet.
February 11th, 2010 at 11:06 am
I’m with you Ray! Jess loves to hear himself talk and talk and talk. If he really wanted this to happen he would be speaking with Jerry and Ann Moss to strategize a great plan for both horses. He would do what’s right for the horses, the fans and the sport and put out a joint release with the Moss’ but he won’t becasue he’s all about Jess.
February 11th, 2010 at 11:46 am
D. Masters-she did nothing for 6 months. Its like starting all over.
Typical training schedule after 6 mo. Just a rough overview not her specific training.
Jog 2 weeks.
Gallop 1 mile 2 weeks.
gallop 1 1/2 miles 3 weeks
3/8 work
2- 1/2 mile works
3-5/8 works
2-3/4
roughly 4 months to get fit, not racing against Zenyatta fit. And that assumes no down time due to rain, which the FG has had plenty of.
February 11th, 2010 at 11:59 am
Thanks ace, not understanding training at this level…completely understandbable timeframe. Yes I know about the recent rains at FG.
Sure would like to see them take her for long walks, but of course the stabling may not allow for it. Open space, long walks are something I think every competitive horse responds to. I just hate that track conditioning as sole source conditioning. But, what the hell do I know and certainly will NEVER own and race a horse the quality of RA OR Z.
Great horses, for a great sport and I hope the details can be worked out for everyone.
February 11th, 2010 at 12:13 pm
YOU FORGOT TO WALK THE SHEDROW WITH WEIGHT UP FOR A WEEK THEN JOG THE WRONG WAY..
February 11th, 2010 at 12:19 pm
Based upon Jackson’s need to CONTROL everything, I wouldn’t be surprised if these two GREAT racehorses never have a chance to run against each other. If it’s not the track, it will be the purse, if it’s not the purse, it will be the weather, if it’s not the weather it will be the distance….blah, blah, blah… Hope I”m wrong, but I think Jackson will always come up with a reason or EXCUSE not to participate….I guess we’ll see.
I hope the Moss’ just lay out their agenda for Zenyatta and say see ya there Jess!!! Take the ball out of the egomaniacs court.
February 11th, 2010 at 12:24 pm
Ace…read the release from Jackson. It’s not that Rachel won’t be ready April 3 off the layoff. Asmussen says “it’s not fair…to face that competition off three weeks rest.” She looked awesome in her workout Sunday. She could run tomorrow and beat the competition at the FG. They have let them name the date for that race and they chose March 13. Asmussen has to fear she would be so crazy fresh in that first race, she would be in danger of bouncing three weeks later. So why not take the chance of being less than 100% a week earlier at FG for $200k instead of asking the only track capable of paying the insurance premium on $5 mil to run a week later on the same afternoon as their traditional big day? The simple answer is Zenyatta. If the Classic winner had indeed retired and Cella was putting up say $1 million as an appearance fee, do you doubt Asmussen could get her ready three weeks later?
Jackson is leaving $5 million on the table over a week of prep time. Other than the BC, it is doubtful another racing entity could stake that kind of money. CDI is cutting purses and doesn’t seem likely to use money from elsewhere in the company to fund a pot that big. NYRA is out of money by the spring apparently. You need a pot that big to get the two of them in the gate AND a viable field to avoid a match race situation.
No Mr. Jackson, you have not listened to the fans and media who want to see this race happen. You know the appearance fees and grand tour of 2010 goes away if you lose to Zenyatta (or anyone for that matter). You know it is in neither camp’s interest to race for smaller pots, so you are setting up the straw man of this NTRA series to get you an easy campaign and keep Zenyatta in California where she can pick off easy cash provided the weights don’t become onerous. The next $5 million payday comes in November. We expect to see you there.
So can we now officially end this “Jackson is Sportsman” charade? He bled money from two tracks while dictating terms of Rachel’s campaign. He and Asmussen twice chose to race weeks after national television was in place to race before smaller audiences. Now he is walking away from the biggest purse and most intriguing race the game has seen outside the BC or TC over one week on the calendar.
February 11th, 2010 at 12:35 pm
Great post Ray. This issue is not a question of Rachel being ready to run or not, most of us realize she probably isn’t. The issue here is what a complete FARSE this proposed “three race series” is. Does the guy really think we’re all that stupid? Like I said before, Jackson is, and has been, campaigning his ego, not his horse. And I love it, because maybe people on the outside are finally starting to realize what a fraud he is.
February 11th, 2010 at 12:48 pm
When it comes to Jess Jackson, it’s all about Jess Jackson
February 11th, 2010 at 12:52 pm
Please call his newest bluff!! Please!!
Rachel has been “jogging” since NOVEMBER and to the idiots who say she would need a race or two before facing Zenyatta–hello!! read the statements–she WAS to have a race in March EXACT same day as Zenyatta’s prep race for the Apple Blossom. So then each would have EXACT number of days between their prep and the Apple Blossom.
It’s plastics fault, it’s too early in the year. it’s not on my terms and I have been talking to NTRA behind the other owner’s back and I want everything my way so let me stall and divert attention with yet another one of my challenges and let me spin it so the Moss’s might have to be on the defensive and let’s put Oaklawn on the spot by trying to pretend one more week would make a difference even though they were always clear that their BIG DAY and one their whole meet built around is Arkansas Derby day–a Kentucky Derby prep so we KNOW they will refuse to move everything to suit us and then I will keep scrambling and find another excuse–oh I don’t know, like maybe Rachel has a minor injury and I need to retire her.
Three races–so BC is one at end of year and on dirt, Apple Blossom which he acted like he was interested in is race two so ALL that would be needed is one sometime in summer and we have 3. Jess didn’t want to take chance Rachel gets beat and Moss’s under no obligation (ala Jess) to give him another chance–period!!
The man is an ass and the interview he gave Art Wilson moments after the awards ceremony where he took cheap shots at Zenyatta and every horse in the BC Classic this year showed what lack of class he has.
Keep it up Ray–go get him!
February 11th, 2010 at 12:55 pm
Ray Chatsworth-”So why not take the chance of being less than 100% a week earlier”-
What part about ‘taking a chance’ don’t you understand? So the horse does too much and injures herself? Is that what you want?
When you train a horse of that caliber, ‘taking a chance’ should never be part of your vocabulary.
You run when the horse is right, not before, not after.
February 11th, 2010 at 1:05 pm
Right on Pete R!
February 11th, 2010 at 1:09 pm
Ace = Asmussen or surrogate perhaps?
February 11th, 2010 at 1:09 pm
I don’t think you will ever see RA and Z in a race or three unless Mr. Jackson can dictate all the terms and conditions. Some of those would be on dirt (of course), no more than 1 1/8 (preferably 1 1/6), and with Z packing an extra 5-7 lbs (because of course, she is bigger and stronger).
I really hope the Mosses just go ahead with plotting out a race schedule that gets Zenyatta ready for the BC Classic. If RA shows up along the way, terrific. If not, they’ll meet at the BC (perhaps).
February 11th, 2010 at 1:17 pm
Ace…when did RA become a hot-house flower? Didn’t they take a chance running in the Preakness on 2 weeks rest? They did that after “training” the horse for a week. They did that in her only race on national TV under their care. Watch that workout last Sunday and tell me why you need to baby that amazon? Didn’t they take a chance running against males three times last year? Didn’t that “ambitious” campaign win Asmussen the Eclipse? Why does he now need to avoid risk?
When you’re a champion coach or athlete you do everything in your power to minimize risk and be at your best, but most sports don’t let you dictate the schedule. If $5 million isn’t enough reason for a trainer of that caliber to alter his routine, rely on his skills and trust in his athlete, then is there ever any possible reason to compete with these animals?
February 11th, 2010 at 1:22 pm
Cella is a smart guy. Create good publicity for Oaklawn with no down side. Anybody would know that the timing of the thing just wasn’t in the cards. As far as the three race series is concerned, it’s amazing that Jackson would go there w/o having a concrete deal in place. How in the world could Mr Moss even reply?
February 11th, 2010 at 1:23 pm
How very dissapointing to hear the news that the race in Hot Springs ,Arkansas was to be run and to have the town accept the frenzied reservations and all hotels booked- when I called yesterday -there were only two rooms left available.
The “industry news” had made us all feel sure that the race challenge HAD been accepted & we fans of both horses rushed to make ready to attend. This is an insult to those in Arkansas who put up the offer of a huge sum of money, and an insult to me, a fan,
I think the world of RACHAEL ALEXZANDRA ,but lost respect for her owner upon hearing this news.
While I did wonder at the fitness of the horses so early in the season, I also know that once fit, a horse can be brought back to fitness very quickly, un-like a youngster who must first develope these muscles. I also know that the horses are schooled year round in many states with mild winters. I think that no one should have accepted or acted as though they had accepted this challenge from the very beginning IF they worried if the horse was fit or not, and this is an excuse., but one I don’t accept. The momentum has now been lost for what was a very exciting challenge & a big boost to racing as far as public awarness is concerened……….Well, at least the Moss’s were not the quitters & rose to the challenge, and I have even MORE respect for them than ever. Thank-you to Oaklawn race track & it’s connections…I felt SO excited & happy for a few days at the prospect of seeing such a race and wanted to be a part of that history…..we were on our way & I hope you can take some comfort on this knowledge.
February 11th, 2010 at 1:29 pm
S. Grundy - couldn’t agree more. This had nothing to do with the horses.
Hey everyone! I’m planning on dating Catherine Zeta-Jones! No, I didn’t call her. No, I didn’t talk to her husband. No, I have no idea when and where this will take place. But make no mistake, it’s in the works!
February 11th, 2010 at 1:32 pm
I have the disadvantage of too close an association with a hypocrate manipulator. I have a long time distrust and disgust with Rachel’s owner. This smoke screen is consistant when you consider the following: (1) Mr. J appeared on the scene with his checkbook to grab Curlin. He then self proclaims himself to be a longtime participant in the industry, because he bought Curlin 15 minutes ago and before that went to the track once to see Seabiscuit . (2) He self proclaimed himself “a sportsman” over and over to everyone who would kisten until finally several journalists accepted that description and used it in their articles. (3) When Curlin wore out at B-Cup time he wailed about “plastic” alone beat his horse. Did the “sportsman” offer any gracious acknowledgement of the winning horses? (4) When Curlin retired and no reporters or broadcasters gave that owner the spotlight was he motivated to buy another chance at self egrandisement? Upon the purchase of RA and the reminder to everyone that he was a “sportsman” he claimed the credit for RA beating the boys. Then he went into a “prevent defense” to run out the clock and claim the spotlight at Eclipe Award night. Excuse for passing on the B-Cup was the very lame PLASTIC argument. A real sportsman would have been at the biggest stage on the biggest day for the maximum benefit and promotion of the horse racing industry - Breeders Cup. Personal considerations trumped the greater good. (5) Now the biggest matter to consider. Mr Sportsman agitated until he could testify in a public forum about the need to clean up racing. Down with agent cheating, Down with Drug Cheating, erc. Who does he send his own horses to? Which trainer has over 50 drug violations? Now while he has the attention, microphones, and journalists listening, what does the sportsman do to further racing by way of the ultimate matchup? Answers readily come into focus now.
February 11th, 2010 at 1:32 pm
There has been talk of a 3-race series way back when….but Z ’s connections wouldn’t consider leaving CA…they chose not to race at Churchill last May because track was wet. I was there…it wasn,t that bad, and most horses ran well over the wet track. All things considered, Jess has been more than fasir and reasonable thru this entire fiasco. It’s appalling that he’s being criticized for delaying Rachel”s start….she needs more time…that’s a no-brainer. Jess ran RA in very tough races, tough schedule. etc. so why doubt him?? He’e walked the walk….not just talk the talk. Didn’t see much criticism from you when the Mosses dropped their bombshell just berfore the Eclipse Awards…to take away from Rachel’s big evening….timing is everything, isn’t it? Stop criticizing Dan Liebman, Jess Jackson,Zayatt, etc…..it gives the perception that you are a very negative, down-in-the-mouth type person, and just doesn’t bode well for this wonderful sport. Ever consider the power of positive thinking??
February 11th, 2010 at 1:35 pm
Have to agree with both Tiznowbaby and MED. No one sincerely could have believed that RA and Z would meet up in the Apple Blossom. It was too good to be true. I strongly doubt that they will meet up AT ALL.
I have to give thumbs up to the Mosses. They’ve kept their mouths shut and have remained patient and classy. Jess Jackson just looks like a blustering idiot.
February 11th, 2010 at 1:36 pm
I thank the Mosses and Jess Jackson for keeping Z and RA in training for another year.
I hope that the Mosses and Jess Jackson and their respective trainers discuss one or more races between Z and RA calmly and in privacy, if and when they are ready.
The industry should be careful that it doesn’t kill the goose that lays the golden eggs and discourage owners from keeping top horses in training by giving them too much crap. The Mosses and Jess Jackson have offered us a precious gift. We should enjoy it and refrain from putting everything that JJ and his trainer SA say and do under a freaking microscope. Everyone needs to calm down. Owners don’t owe us a damn thing, however, they owe to always do what is healthiest and safest for their marvelous horses.
When JJ talks he is criticized. When Assmussen talks, JJ is criticized for letting his trainer talk. Please, stop the micro-analysis.
And stop the micro-management. Training a race horse is not an exact science. Although there should never be double-standards, the fact is that top horses are handled far more carefully than horses of lesser value. JJ and SA should be left alone to train RA at her own pace.
I don’t know in which condition RA ended her 2009 campaign. She might have been dealing with more than exhaustion after her very tough campaign. No one should bash JJ/SA for giving her whatever time off she needed and bring her back at a pace which cannot be pre-programmed. No one should judge JJ and train RA. No impatient poster or reporter should dare tell them when and where RA should run.
Don’t ask too much. Be grateful for what we’ve got so far: Z and RA still sound and still in training because of the generosity and sportsmanship of both owners and the excellent management they allowed their trainers to offer Z and RA.
JJ owes nothing to us and to racing. He only owes to do what is best for the health and safety of his horses. What if he gets fed up by the non-stop criticsm and decides it is not worth it and retire RA? Perhaps that’s what the KY Boys really want: to see JJ –the outsider who dared expose rampant fraud in their fiefdom, and whose horses keep beating theirs– go away all together. Racing would be poorer without JJ’s horses.
And if indeed JJ is like a Hollywood pop tard craving for paparazzi, as long as some of us continue to go ballistic upon his every words and actions, we continue to feed his ego. If we didn’t JJ might decide to behave like the Mosses.
February 11th, 2010 at 1:37 pm
Hey Tom F(#63) not if I get there first!
February 11th, 2010 at 1:42 pm
There has been talk of a 3-race series way back when….but Z ’s connections wouldn’t consider leaving CA…they chose not to race at Churchill last May because track was wet. I was there…it wasn’t that bad, and most horses ran well over the wet track. All things considered, Jess has been more than fair and reasonable thru this entire fiasco. It’s appalling that he’s being criticized for delaying Rachel”s start….she needs more time…that’s a no-brainer. Jess ran RA in very tough races, tough schedule. etc. so why doubt him?? He’s walked the walk….not just talk the talk. Didn’t see much criticism from you when the Mosses dropped their bombshell just before the Eclipse Awards…to take away from Rachel’s big evening….timing is everything, isn’t it? Stop criticizing Dan Liebman, Jess Jackson,Zayatt, etc…..it gives the perception that you are a very negative, down-in-the-mouth type person. It just doesn’t bode well for this wonderful sport. Since people hold you in high esteem, ever consider the power of positive thinking and all the enthusiasm you could generate by talking up the good stuff instead of always being negative?? You come across as a grumpy old man these days.
February 11th, 2010 at 1:44 pm
Hey Tom F (#63) Not if I get there first!
February 11th, 2010 at 1:53 pm
It seems to me that since the Breeder’s Cup and the HOTY awards you are consistently favoring Zenyatta and her connections.
As you know , Tim Wilkins wrote on Dec. 4, 2009 that J Jackson called Mr. Moss and offered him 3 races , grass - dirt- synthetic in the coming season , this one !
Mr Moss declined , saying Zenyatta was retiring.
So why is JJ being doubted now, offering again since Zenyatta did not retire ? Why is Mr Moss saying he’s never heard this before ? Why all the grousing because Jackson and Asmussen care too much for their horse and her well-being/record to throw her into an early race before she is even seasoned ? What athlete does that , with out time for workouts, etc. ?
I am so disappointed in you and your column.
February 11th, 2010 at 2:01 pm
Oh, give it a rest. We don’t need another Nashua/Swaps fiasco. I’m not saying that Nashua might not have beaten Swaps when both were in peak form, but he’d have never outsprinted the Califonian to the first turn.
If Rachel’s folks are ducking Zenyatta, it will be apparent by season’s end. You’re way too early with this foolishness, especially for a horse that hasn’t even breezed five furlongs off the lay-off.
February 11th, 2010 at 2:44 pm
Everybody should just forget about a race with Rachel and Zen, unless the Moss’s want to follow Rachel around like Seabiscuit followed the Admiral.
Rachel is never going to race Zen beyoned a mile and a eigth, the real race is between Quality Road and Zenyatta in the BC Classic if they can both get there sound.
February 11th, 2010 at 3:08 pm
I Davis…Why is it a knock on Zenyatta for skipping the Churchill race last spring because of weather, but not a knock on Rachel for failing to start her training on time because of “weather?”
February 11th, 2010 at 3:11 pm
Ray Chatsworth-
There is a difference running a horse back quickly when dead fit and bringing back a horse off a layoff.
Comprende?
February 11th, 2010 at 3:15 pm
Ray Chatsworth-
There is no ‘do overs’ in racing. You train the horse to your satisfaction so you won’t be forced to second guess yourself if something goes wrong-like Shireffs not running Zenyatta on an off track last year at Churchill Downs. What would the point be, taking a risk of injuring your horse on an off track?
Rachel ‘had to run’, there is only 1 Kentucky Oaks, but no one should have been surprised if she scratched, and I believe there are plenty of trainers who would have scratched her that day.
Comprende?
February 11th, 2010 at 3:26 pm
Ace…really…what’s the difference? What universal truism about horsemanship and handicapping precludes the Horse of the Year from being able to win two races worth $5.2 million dollars with seven weeks to get ready for them? And what time-honored training method would indicate the same horse would most certainly turn the trick if only she had SIX MORE DAYS TO PREPARE?
February 11th, 2010 at 3:32 pm
U just don’t get it. Or want to. Those 6 days can be the difference between night and day.
There is no universal truism, every horse is different, thankfully you don’t own any horses lol.
February 11th, 2010 at 3:54 pm
Ace…I get it. Those six days could mean a lot to winning and/or losing. And Jackson doesn’t want to lose. This is what everyone here - Paulick included - is saying. Don’t try and spin us with fantastic hypothetical series or weather delays. He put words in Asmussen’s mouth that said, I can’t beat Zenyatta on April 3. I guarantee you if you dropped a Triple Crown horse with the talent of RA into Asmussen’s lap today and said “win me a TC race” he could do it. He already has twice. He’s proven he can work around fixed schedules and win at the highest levels. Unfortunately, Jackson for some reason can’t afford to lose and also can’t admit that he can’t afford to lose. So he’s made Asmussen sound like he couldn’t get it done. He could, and I bet in light of the way the PR has spun this past week, he’s itching for the chance.
So again, Mr. Jackson, give your champion trainer and horse a chance in the race. It is highly unlikely it happens any other way considering the BC is eight long months away. You say you know it’s what racing wants and needs. Put your mouth where Mr. Cella’s money is and make it happen.
February 11th, 2010 at 4:22 pm
I Davis -
If you knew anything about Jess Jackson as a person, you wouldn’t care who slammed him. In my opinion, he’s one of the worst pieces of human garbage walking the earth.
February 11th, 2010 at 4:38 pm
He must think he can beat her on pril 9th!!!!
February 11th, 2010 at 4:42 pm
Pam of Sunny Farm - AMEN! I did the same thing. Bought tickets, got the hotel rooms, all excited, thought I was going to see the race of the century. But I deep down knew it was a longshot that Rachel would be there. If there ever is a race with both of them in it, I probably won’t be able to get tickets. At least Oaklawn didn’t jack up the prices or make it impossible for the average guy to see the race. It’s a class track, too bad it didn’t happen there.
February 11th, 2010 at 4:51 pm
Per the latest it looks like its BACK ON with the adjusted later date - just as Jackson asked for.
Oaklawn must’ve realized not conceding meant the bus was going to keep on moving without a stop in Arkansas.
February 11th, 2010 at 5:07 pm
Hi “Freespirit”….I was really looking foward to yelling so loudly that I lost my voice,and yet, I did have ”reservations”..LOL…about everything going forward…still, the race appeared to be AGREED on. I will say one thing, and that is Mr.Cella , et al and Oaklawn certainly had some big balls, (you know, like Jolly Balls ™ that the horses play with !)
I have, at least learned more about racing in Arkansas and would plan to race my horses there in the future and I have a big respect for Oaklawn now & still have a desire to relax in their hot-springs !
While the best interests of the horses should always come first-I don’t think it was quite the case in this instance. I could have gotten my grandmother ready to race by April 03 2010., even so why did ‘they’ agree to this race to begin with -then- ????
February 11th, 2010 at 5:11 pm
hey Larry … who died and made you the grammar police? If you really want to go there then Belmont should have a capital ‘B’ … neener, neener neener …. yeah, childish is the proper term, but thanks. I’ll try not to offend you next time.
February 11th, 2010 at 5:22 pm
Glimmerglass..Please don’t toy with us, I just went out & shot a coyote who was bothering my horses in ”honor of Mr. Jackson”!!! It was not Oaklawn who propped as they were ready & already out of the gate for the Great Race…perhaps you were thinking of someone else.
So, does this mean I keep my bags packed ???
February 11th, 2010 at 5:46 pm
So If BC has all the strings are they our best hope for a league, why not? What is being done about uniformity, I forgot?
February 11th, 2010 at 5:47 pm
So how do all you JJ haters feel right now? In general how do all haters feel, probably bad a majority of their time.
February 11th, 2010 at 6:31 pm
Webster # 88
.I think JJ has been reading some of these comments and realized he was in deep do-do with the public. Either that or someone reminded him againn that it was a five million dollar race
February 11th, 2010 at 7:13 pm
Some journalist needs to ask the “sportsman” how he came by the winery he and his mother–oops–wife own.
February 11th, 2010 at 7:21 pm
Is it just me or does Jess Jackson and his obsession to read his quotes get older every day. He talks as if he knows more than most trainers about horses. He knows nothing but how to step on small people and how to make wine and enemies
February 11th, 2010 at 9:09 pm
Like I have said before Jackson will never run against the great Zenyatta. Now he proposes a three race series. It he waiting to race Zenyatta when she is 10.
February 12th, 2010 at 9:48 am
It’s no wonder Thoroughbred racing is in such dire shape….no leadership as all these key players think they know it all and can’t stand anyone who is a true leader and an obvious asset to the sport. JJ has done more for the sport than any other owner over the past few years. He’s against all drugs incl Lassix, he listens to his fans as well as his trainer and his star Thoroughbreds; and he tells it like it is, calling out the losers in the sport. Without JJ, Thoroughbred racing over the past few years would have been rather boring.
He suggested a week or so ago to change the date of the Apple Blossom; finally they listened when it was known RA would not be running if the date wasn’t changed….it wasn’t rocket science to know that was the logical move that needed to be made if she was to race in the Apple Blossom…..glad it’s on, but having it on a Fri isn’t too cool for promoting racing. Who will see the race besides those of us who are already hooked on the sport?? Big PR mistake….the powers that be just can’t get it done right…they are like the Keystone cops! It’s very sad, actually, that they don’t know how to make it happen. This race should be on a Saturday or Sunday when all the world can witness it. I continue to be amazed by all the bad decisions made by Thoroughbred racing.
I’ve seen RA 3 times live…at the KY Oaks last May, at the Preakness, and at Belmont for the Mother Goose last summer. She is phenomenal….and JJ is doing everything right by her, IMO. We’ve owned horses in partnerships…. it was a rather good but costly experience. Unless you know what it’s like to make the tough decisions w/regard to what’s best for the horse, you shouldn’t be second guessing the likes of JJ. WE need more right-minded J Jacksons and less self-appointed know-it-alls. GO Rachel!
February 12th, 2010 at 10:14 am
Response to #93 above: The only things JJ has done for (or to) racing is find a place on a stage in front of microphones and cameras where people will finally listen to him tell us what a wonderful “sportsman” he is. He can’t retire RA or the world’s attention will no longer be focused on him. As to his “being against all drugs”, why did he select his trainer from the top spot on the drug violation list?. There are plenty of people in racing who have bumped up against him, that would say unanimously, “to know him is to loathe him”. Look at this whole situation and compare the two extremes: Which trainer of the two exemplifies class? Which ownership exemplifies class?
February 12th, 2010 at 10:53 am
This is what’s known as lively debate, and, arguably at least, it’s good for the sport even if it can get a little kindergartenish. Don’t kid yourselves about how [very, very nearly] all owners conduct themselves in these situations: just like this.
Go back and look at the history of trotters in the high wheel days of the late 1800s. Almost the only grown up was Robert Bonner. He always wanted the best horse,but when he had bought it he took it out of the public domain and drove it on the road. So Bonner didn’t get involved in the “challenges” that were thrown about by the owners of the better horses without usually coming to much. Actually a lot of it was designed to stimulate public interest because the top trotters, like boxers, often competed for a share of the gate money in those days.
Bonner was also competent to drive his horses up to, or to exceed, the records that they held when he got them. He also co-wrote a farriery manual with David Roberge which has recently been reprinted. I suspect Mr. Jackson, for all his pontification, could not do the same. Then again, nor could Zenyatta’s people!
We’re going to have the same childish tantrums here over the next few weeks regarding steeplechasers Denman and Kauto Star. As long as it doesn’t get too heated it’s probably a good thing.