Dawn at Churchill Downs - Featuring Mine That Bird

On this Belmont eve, I'm finally getting around to posting some photos I took on the backside of Churchill Downs on May 21, 2009. And, yes, the last three are of Mine That Bird.

All photos © 2009 JoeyJo

Rachel Alexandra - Doesn't She Look Happy?

"Bitter, party of one."

Okay, maybe I am applying human feelings to animals. Sorry, if I have insulted them, the animals.

Look at Rachel Alexandra now.





All dolled up. Tongue tied. Away from all the happiness, or at least the happiness that could be achieved under the control of humans, that she had known.
Into a new world.
Best of luck, Rachel Alexandra.

Rachel Alexandra, Money Can Buy

The beautiful filly, Rachel Alexandra, who won the Kentucky Oaks, May 1, 2009, has been sold.
Although I know, from being a Curlin fan, that she will be well cared for, I am sad.
Once again, a horse will be taken out of her surroundings, away from those she loves and those who love her,...as if it does not matter. As if, she is only property.

But, she is not.

I know from too many experiences of how horses grieve and search for friends who are no longer there.
But, humans think that as long as they have food, water and exercise, it won't matter.
Sure. She'll adjust.
Just as a human waves a tearful goodbye to dear friends.

Rachel Romps!

Rachel Alexandra easily takes the Kentucky Oaks 5-1-09.

A Ride On Zenyatta

While catching up on Derby and Oaks news, I found this great video of Zenyatta with Mike Smith aboard wearing a helmet camera. Zenyatta is scheduled to run in The Louisville Distaff (Churchill Downs 7th race May 1, post time 2:10pm EDT), but if the rainy weather makes the track not to her trainer's liking, she may be scratched. So, enjoy this ride as a possible consolation.

Kentucky Oaks 135

I've been watching this filly for many months now. She'll be flying out of post position 6 on Friday, May 1, 2009. Oaks Day. Not only is she cute, but she is incredible!
(Note: Top photo, credit Barbara D. Livingston.)

Click here for more information about The Kentucky Oaks 135 and The Kentucky Derby 135.

Baby Girl

Rags To Riches' new foal.

Congratulations!