I heard Shaniko's number called by some wiseguys some time ago. He's gonna have to move up quickly now, obviously his first big race can't be the Kentucky Derby. Though I think there was a maiden named "Brokers Tip" that won the Derby in the thirties.

After reviewing the Fountian of Youth card more closely its pretty clear the Fountain was a race horse race. Shaniko's race was nearly two seconds slower at a mile. He's not real fast early but you don't have to be to win the Derby. He'll have to improve significantly before then, but they all will. Well, then again maybe RTF only has to pair...lol

I just got that itchy feeling regarding the Derby. Sometimes it happens early. Sometimes late, sometimes it comes and then goes away. Sometimes I forget which horse gave me that feeling first and then lose the Derby over it. Go for Gin being an example. He won a race at GP and I felt itchy and said "This is my Derby horse" and then I got off him. I'm looking to score my third consecutive Derby win. I win the dang thing in threes and miss excruciatingly close most other years...lol. Not that I've won it all that many times, this year will make six when I cash the "itchy feeling". Caveat, Anees gave me the itchiest feeling I ever had. lol

Regarding the unraced Southern Hemisphere horse, I'm not sure theres much anyone can say about an unraced horse. I imagine if she shows some affinity for running the decision whether to ship may get easier. Age restricted races are a significant way for a filly to turn a profit. If I'm not mistaken shes gonna be behind the Northern Hemisphere foaled horses in development.

She seems nicely enough bred. Her sire and dam sire both tipped in at about 14,000 for their stud fees. I can't locate any progeny results so its hard to say what kind of runners are being thrown. I think shes leaning towards sprinting on breeding, thats always said with caution and her conformation and sales price would shed some light upon her.

If I owned a Southern hemisphere horse I think I'd be inclined to race it where it was and if it showed some ability I'd consider shipping it for its four year old season. Purse value and availability of age restricted races factoring into that decision certainly.

CtC



Post Edited (02-17-04 22:09)