but it is too good, and I felt it needed to be shared.
From this week's Willamette Week newspaper:
CAPRICORN:(that's me)
"If you were at the Burning Man Festival in the Nevada desert right now, you might be racing your souped-up tricycle through a miniature golf course-style maze while dressed in a superhero costume, after which you'd enjoy a sushi dinner served on the naked belly of a good-looking clown. Or maybe you'd be exploring the benefits of of a short duration marriage to a temporary soulmate selected for you by a seven-year old girl deity sittin gon a neon green plastic throne surrounded by a circle of flame. Since you're probably not at Burning Man, however, you've got to find other ways to carry out your astrological mandate, which is to enjoy semi-crazy acts of liberation you'd normally never try."
If you're reading this and thinking about making a seemingly difficult decision whether or not to trust your job with this blog, I urge you to take the chance - whether you are a Capricorn or not.
Blogs are differnet and new, (especially in this industry) therefore they possess an heir of uncertainty that leads to some uncomfortableness. The internets are here. We have long passed since Web 1.0 and are rapidly approaching Web 2.0. I am perched atop my high-horse asking for a chance to lead this sport, the game we all love to the top of the 21st century. With a devoted pack closely behind, supporting this movement, the risk you may see now as gigantic, will prove to be nothign when paired with the unlimited potential gains lying there for the taking.
I will get to this issue later on tonight.
Now, onto cheap sushi for this evenings meal.
Wednesday, August 30, 2006
Tuesday, August 29, 2006
I Gallop, You Gallop, He/She/It Gallops
Another dark Tuesday for most of the racing world, and some rain and clouds here in the Portland area.
With this being such a widely held off day for jocks, trainers, owners, horses, et.al. I wonder if those trying to stay in shape have gotten themselves an iGALLOP
If you’ll notice, neither Gary Stevens nor Jerry Bailey were asked to model this for Brookstone.
Probably a good choice.
Check out iGallop's Commercial
(tip of the hat to TMZ on this one)
With this being such a widely held off day for jocks, trainers, owners, horses, et.al. I wonder if those trying to stay in shape have gotten themselves an iGALLOP
If you’ll notice, neither Gary Stevens nor Jerry Bailey were asked to model this for Brookstone.
Probably a good choice.
Check out iGallop's Commercial
(tip of the hat to TMZ on this one)
Tuesday, August 22, 2006
A tough year, just getting tougher.....
In talking about the year that is in the world of horse racing, our esteemed colleague over at Pulling Hair and Betting Horses, Patrick, was all to prescient in his most recent comments regarding LITF:
“This year has pretty much been good news followed by bad news every week.”
Maybe the TBA is jinxed? I am dumbfounded at the latest catastrophe to strike the sport.
This was "our" first horse.
“This year has pretty much been good news followed by bad news every week.”
Maybe the TBA is jinxed? I am dumbfounded at the latest catastrophe to strike the sport.
This was "our" first horse.
Friday, August 18, 2006
Best piece of horse writing (regarding betting) I've read in a LONG time...
If the folks at ESPN feel like sueing me for re-printing "a piece" of Jay Cronely's latest article. Then, bring it, bi#^%!s.
The following is an EXCERPT from ESPN.com's Jay Cronely who has been growing on me more and more lately as an entertaining and informative read.
"Questions of value:
Q - Most times when I turn on a nationally televised race, I hear one of the expert handicappers say that he or she is searching for value. What exactly does that mean?
A - This is a valuable handicapping aid, one that should never be ignored. When you hear a TV expert find a 'value' in the upcoming race, take a black pen and run a line through the horse's name, eliminating it from consideration. I used to use Magic Markers to black-out TV 'value' picks, but the ink seeped through the Form. Horses that win and pay a price are not 'values.' Good handicappers don't know what a horse is apt to pay until it has been tabbed as a winner. A 'value' horse is a stretch, it's what you play when you're down a bundle.
Q - What, in your opinion, is a good value, anyway?
A - Anything that wins. If a 100 percent return on your investment isn't enough, and if you're betting five bucks, it probably isn't, then you're going to have to hook an undervalued winner to a Pick 3 or Pick 4 or more. Or watch a 'value' run fifth.
Q - If you like two horses the same, and one is 1-1, and the other is 10-1, shouldn't you play the one that offered the best value?
A - If you can't play them both, go home.
Q - For your information, wise guy, there are handicapping systems based on making wagers on the best values in a particular race.
A - Being alone with your thoughts is so unacceptable to some people, they try to take the instinctive and creative elements out of handicapping and reduce the game to a set of impersonal numbers.
Thing is, each race is different."
If you want the whole thing, go to ESPN.com and go the horse racing section.
The following is an EXCERPT from ESPN.com's Jay Cronely who has been growing on me more and more lately as an entertaining and informative read.
"Questions of value:
Q - Most times when I turn on a nationally televised race, I hear one of the expert handicappers say that he or she is searching for value. What exactly does that mean?
A - This is a valuable handicapping aid, one that should never be ignored. When you hear a TV expert find a 'value' in the upcoming race, take a black pen and run a line through the horse's name, eliminating it from consideration. I used to use Magic Markers to black-out TV 'value' picks, but the ink seeped through the Form. Horses that win and pay a price are not 'values.' Good handicappers don't know what a horse is apt to pay until it has been tabbed as a winner. A 'value' horse is a stretch, it's what you play when you're down a bundle.
Q - What, in your opinion, is a good value, anyway?
A - Anything that wins. If a 100 percent return on your investment isn't enough, and if you're betting five bucks, it probably isn't, then you're going to have to hook an undervalued winner to a Pick 3 or Pick 4 or more. Or watch a 'value' run fifth.
Q - If you like two horses the same, and one is 1-1, and the other is 10-1, shouldn't you play the one that offered the best value?
A - If you can't play them both, go home.
Q - For your information, wise guy, there are handicapping systems based on making wagers on the best values in a particular race.
A - Being alone with your thoughts is so unacceptable to some people, they try to take the instinctive and creative elements out of handicapping and reduce the game to a set of impersonal numbers.
Thing is, each race is different."
If you want the whole thing, go to ESPN.com and go the horse racing section.
Tuesday, August 15, 2006
Tuesday is Monday....
Sometimes it’s hard to find a ton of inspiration to post here. The more you look at, analyze and break down one specific topic or subject, the greater the opportunity for the wheels of creativity can grind to a screeching halt. No neck braces needed, this inspiration spiral into the depths of cynical nothingness is a slow, wringing process.
Where does one start day after day, expounding on the same topic. Often times I am even turned off by the sport I love so much. Over saturation of anything is a bad thing. Everything in moderation, that’s what I say.
So here we are today, a Tuesday no less. The darkest of the dark days sees a measly 14 tracks running. On top of that, today was my Monday!!
Not even a 10-minute sojourn down the block to my local OTB to liven my spirits on a sluggish, recovering first day of the week. At least it’s a 4-day week!!
-Please take a few minutes to read this article/review. Although NOT horse racing specific, it is both real-life and animal centric. I literally almost started crying on the bus reading this piece. Don’t ask me why. That’s for my next blog – Ruben’s Head. Btw, here’s a link to the film’s website. Check it out and see when, where and if it’s playing in a city near you. I will be checking it out before it leaves town on the 24th - hopefully I can give you all an official review before then.
-Good move by Equibase to offer Spanish language race programs. At least SOMEONE in this industry has some good marketing people working with them.
-I’ve been reading Jane Smiley’s “A Year at the Races” for some time now. I don’t know for sure when I boughtit from the greatest book store in the nation, my receipt doesn’t have the date on it (curious, no?). The point is, I won’t give this book a bad review b/c I haven’t yet finished it. But the fact remains, at this point, I am less than thrilled with what I’ve gotten through. I will keep this on my night table and keep trying (in between “My Losing Season” and “Eats, Shoots and Leaves”) to complete the “reflections on horses, humans, love, money and luck.”
-When are the jockey’s going to properly organize and become employees of the NTRA. All tracks should be under one governing body. The tracks should be licensed and ruled by an organization that employs its superstars. If anyone thinks horses are the future of marketing racing, I believe they are sadly mistaken. When SOMEBODY finally takes the time to nurture and grow the personalities and stories that are jockeys, the sport may finally seem some of the much talked about growth. If I were commissioner, or at least a paid consultant, my FIRST act would be to demand MANDATORY English annunciation, pronunciation and articulation. What good are post race interviews when ¾ of the viewing public can’t understand what he/she is saying. This is NOT an ethnic, racial or cultural bash, it is a fact of life right now. I’m not saying every jockey needs to be fluent in English. But each (to start just the ones who regularly appear on national television) man or woman needs to be able to clearly articulate (in English) what just happened in the race; what the trainer or owner told him/her prior to the race; or what his/her dinner plans are for this evening after winning the Kentucky Derby.
Where does one start day after day, expounding on the same topic. Often times I am even turned off by the sport I love so much. Over saturation of anything is a bad thing. Everything in moderation, that’s what I say.
So here we are today, a Tuesday no less. The darkest of the dark days sees a measly 14 tracks running. On top of that, today was my Monday!!
Not even a 10-minute sojourn down the block to my local OTB to liven my spirits on a sluggish, recovering first day of the week. At least it’s a 4-day week!!
-Please take a few minutes to read this article/review. Although NOT horse racing specific, it is both real-life and animal centric. I literally almost started crying on the bus reading this piece. Don’t ask me why. That’s for my next blog – Ruben’s Head. Btw, here’s a link to the film’s website. Check it out and see when, where and if it’s playing in a city near you. I will be checking it out before it leaves town on the 24th - hopefully I can give you all an official review before then.
-Good move by Equibase to offer Spanish language race programs. At least SOMEONE in this industry has some good marketing people working with them.
-I’ve been reading Jane Smiley’s “A Year at the Races” for some time now. I don’t know for sure when I boughtit from the greatest book store in the nation, my receipt doesn’t have the date on it (curious, no?). The point is, I won’t give this book a bad review b/c I haven’t yet finished it. But the fact remains, at this point, I am less than thrilled with what I’ve gotten through. I will keep this on my night table and keep trying (in between “My Losing Season” and “Eats, Shoots and Leaves”) to complete the “reflections on horses, humans, love, money and luck.”
-When are the jockey’s going to properly organize and become employees of the NTRA. All tracks should be under one governing body. The tracks should be licensed and ruled by an organization that employs its superstars. If anyone thinks horses are the future of marketing racing, I believe they are sadly mistaken. When SOMEBODY finally takes the time to nurture and grow the personalities and stories that are jockeys, the sport may finally seem some of the much talked about growth. If I were commissioner, or at least a paid consultant, my FIRST act would be to demand MANDATORY English annunciation, pronunciation and articulation. What good are post race interviews when ¾ of the viewing public can’t understand what he/she is saying. This is NOT an ethnic, racial or cultural bash, it is a fact of life right now. I’m not saying every jockey needs to be fluent in English. But each (to start just the ones who regularly appear on national television) man or woman needs to be able to clearly articulate (in English) what just happened in the race; what the trainer or owner told him/her prior to the race; or what his/her dinner plans are for this evening after winning the Kentucky Derby.
Thursday, August 10, 2006
Saturday, August 05, 2006
Sign-ins please.....
Where can I sign up for the Sue Broux fanclub? That girl sure does know how to stir some shit. Done right, too. Texas style.
In the meantime, we just keep growing. I am loving how some of these long-distance relationships are translating into real world success for participation.
If you haven't already, please welcome:
Can't Wait for the Inner
Hey Rob!! Welcome. As easy as it is to hate Aqueduct, some of my favorite handicapping days have come in the 2nd floor deli spent with my mentor, explaining the intricacies of touting. It used to be so great to look at the horses (pp's). Bullshit. Watch the race. Bullshit some more. Then, delve right back into the paper.
Mmmmmmm, corned beef sandwich and a black cherry soda - just one of those unique "Senses" memories we all strangely have. Aqueduct has that different feel than Belmont does. It is a comfortable track to stay inside and enjoy the races. Which doesn't necessariy mean it's nice overall...but, hey it's The Big A!
It's great to have one of my favortie bloggers, and local celebrity on-board. I know Jayson has been posting some really cool stuff for some time, and it is even cooler that he has finally decided to join our little gang.
I believe Jason is a good example of how this game needs us young, interent saavy folks. The game need's some more creativity - added value as they say. Yes, the game is run by money, but people who have money always like to have more. Why can't we all do our part to participate in improving the track as a place to have fun? Which it is!! We just have to tell more folks about it and faclitte ther initiation.
I'll close with this off of Craig Newmark's blog:
"...I feel that professional and citizen journalism are converging, merging their strengths. Professional journalism tends to involve professional editing and factchecking; citizen journalists frequently have the courage to speak truth to power."
In the meantime, we just keep growing. I am loving how some of these long-distance relationships are translating into real world success for participation.
If you haven't already, please welcome:
Can't Wait for the Inner
Hey Rob!! Welcome. As easy as it is to hate Aqueduct, some of my favorite handicapping days have come in the 2nd floor deli spent with my mentor, explaining the intricacies of touting. It used to be so great to look at the horses (pp's). Bullshit. Watch the race. Bullshit some more. Then, delve right back into the paper.
Mmmmmmm, corned beef sandwich and a black cherry soda - just one of those unique "Senses" memories we all strangely have. Aqueduct has that different feel than Belmont does. It is a comfortable track to stay inside and enjoy the races. Which doesn't necessariy mean it's nice overall...but, hey it's The Big A!
It's great to have one of my favortie bloggers, and local celebrity on-board. I know Jayson has been posting some really cool stuff for some time, and it is even cooler that he has finally decided to join our little gang.
I believe Jason is a good example of how this game needs us young, interent saavy folks. The game need's some more creativity - added value as they say. Yes, the game is run by money, but people who have money always like to have more. Why can't we all do our part to participate in improving the track as a place to have fun? Which it is!! We just have to tell more folks about it and faclitte ther initiation.
I'll close with this off of Craig Newmark's blog:
"...I feel that professional and citizen journalism are converging, merging their strengths. Professional journalism tends to involve professional editing and factchecking; citizen journalists frequently have the courage to speak truth to power."
Thursday, August 03, 2006
Wild Weekend
It’s taken me a few solid days to recover from a marathon day of handicapping. Weeding through past performances from 9 different tracks across the country from 9:30am until 7pm can definitely take its toll on you physically and mentally.
Luckily, the folks at Emerald Downs, who were once again hosting the Ultimate Qualifying Tournament at their lovely track just SE of Seattle. The folks who ran the day really hooked it up. Non-stop buffet food options and unlimited liquid beverages, capped off by post contest hosted bar. A staff that was beyond friendly, helpful, patient, and in some cases distractingly attractive.
With that said, many of you who read this blog know there was some controversy and yours truly was right in the middle of it all.
Seems there were some official scoring snafus in the final, official scoring. In my case, I initially was told that I finished 8th, taking home $750 and a free trip to Vegas in January to compete in the invite only DRF NHC at Bally’s.
Less than 24 hrs. that result would be changed to an 11th place finish, and my trip to Vegas washed away. In hindsight (and put fully into perspective) 11th out of 400 seems not to be too bad of a showing.
Needless to say, Susie Sourwine, VP of Marketing at ED came to the rescue and offered me a very considerate “compensation package” to make up for their mistakes. Ms. Sourwine acted as an experienced, courteous professional and I appreciate the way she handled the whole situation.
Even more so than ever before, go check out Emerald Downs if you ever get a chance. Besides the fantastic facilities and gorgeous vies of Mt. Rainier, you will be certain that you will be taken care of appropriately by their staff.
I had planned on live blogging form the tournament, but when I inquired just a few days before the event, I was told they had no Wi-Fi. I knew the girl I spoke to really had no clue, but I opted not to bring it anyway. In the end, even though there was internet access that many took advantage of, it was probably for the best that I didn’t have my laptop. Between placing bets on two cards, touting, talking on the phone to m partner and trying to keep track of everything else going on, I don’t think I could have handled another distraction.
Oh well, it would have been cool. Now we all have to settle for the slacker, secondary, abbreviated version!!
I am getting settled into my new place and hope to have my regular internet connection ready to go this weekend. In the meantime, I am lugging my 1947 Dell laptop to and from work so I can stay connected while setting up my new residence.
-It looks as though we have ANOTHER new TBA member. I will post that information tomorrow. I have some other projects I need to go work on before I pass out.
-Finally, I don’t think I’ve pimped it yet, but PLEASE go check out Saratoga Racing Daily. This is one of the best blogs going out there. The site covers everything Saratoga from the t-breds to the trotters to the nightlife. As the tagline says, “Racing Saratoga – All day. All night.
Luckily, the folks at Emerald Downs, who were once again hosting the Ultimate Qualifying Tournament at their lovely track just SE of Seattle. The folks who ran the day really hooked it up. Non-stop buffet food options and unlimited liquid beverages, capped off by post contest hosted bar. A staff that was beyond friendly, helpful, patient, and in some cases distractingly attractive.
With that said, many of you who read this blog know there was some controversy and yours truly was right in the middle of it all.
Seems there were some official scoring snafus in the final, official scoring. In my case, I initially was told that I finished 8th, taking home $750 and a free trip to Vegas in January to compete in the invite only DRF NHC at Bally’s.
Less than 24 hrs. that result would be changed to an 11th place finish, and my trip to Vegas washed away. In hindsight (and put fully into perspective) 11th out of 400 seems not to be too bad of a showing.
Needless to say, Susie Sourwine, VP of Marketing at ED came to the rescue and offered me a very considerate “compensation package” to make up for their mistakes. Ms. Sourwine acted as an experienced, courteous professional and I appreciate the way she handled the whole situation.
Even more so than ever before, go check out Emerald Downs if you ever get a chance. Besides the fantastic facilities and gorgeous vies of Mt. Rainier, you will be certain that you will be taken care of appropriately by their staff.
I had planned on live blogging form the tournament, but when I inquired just a few days before the event, I was told they had no Wi-Fi. I knew the girl I spoke to really had no clue, but I opted not to bring it anyway. In the end, even though there was internet access that many took advantage of, it was probably for the best that I didn’t have my laptop. Between placing bets on two cards, touting, talking on the phone to m partner and trying to keep track of everything else going on, I don’t think I could have handled another distraction.
Oh well, it would have been cool. Now we all have to settle for the slacker, secondary, abbreviated version!!
I am getting settled into my new place and hope to have my regular internet connection ready to go this weekend. In the meantime, I am lugging my 1947 Dell laptop to and from work so I can stay connected while setting up my new residence.
-It looks as though we have ANOTHER new TBA member. I will post that information tomorrow. I have some other projects I need to go work on before I pass out.
-Finally, I don’t think I’ve pimped it yet, but PLEASE go check out Saratoga Racing Daily. This is one of the best blogs going out there. The site covers everything Saratoga from the t-breds to the trotters to the nightlife. As the tagline says, “Racing Saratoga – All day. All night.
Friday, July 28, 2006
We're blowin' up....
I can't even blink these days without another blogger signing up for our little TBA thing.
Welcome to Shawn over at "At the Spa." Give him a visit and say hello.
And because I am such a hack at keeping this blog fresh and up to date, go check out Alan's new Saratoga news project over at Racing Saratoga
Now leave me alone, don't you know I'm a big star?
Welcome to Shawn over at "At the Spa." Give him a visit and say hello.
And because I am such a hack at keeping this blog fresh and up to date, go check out Alan's new Saratoga news project over at Racing Saratoga
Now leave me alone, don't you know I'm a big star?
Thursday, July 27, 2006
New TBA Member: another nw knucklehead
Welcome and check out our newest blogging lunatic right here.
Be gentle though, he just suffered what has to be one of the worst losses a horse player can have: the shoulddda, wouldda, couldda that we all dread.
Don't worry, it always comes back around.
At least you've got Jason beat.
Welcome dood!!
Be gentle though, he just suffered what has to be one of the worst losses a horse player can have: the shoulddda, wouldda, couldda that we all dread.
Don't worry, it always comes back around.
At least you've got Jason beat.
Welcome dood!!
Re-Pimping Myself..
Back by popular demand (and when I say popular, I mean one request) yours truly in the Portland Tribune
Tuesday, July 18, 2006
Friday, July 14, 2006
"Good" news day..
So it looks like the Barbaro roller coaster housed at UPenn is back on its way up. That really is great news. Hopefully, it will stay that way.
In other good horsie news, it looks like someone is actually being pro-active in a horse related marketing department:
From allaccess.com:
Drew Walker & Rodney Atkins Bet On The Ponies
CBS RADIO Country )/CHICAGO afternoon stud DREW WALKER will be doing his show live today (3p-7p) with RODNEY ATKINS from the WINDY CITY's gorgeous horse track, ARLINGTON PARK. Country star ATKINS will be on hand to sign autographs, dole out hugs, and teach DREW how to bet a superfecta.
Here is the host's homepage:
Drew Walker
I guess Rodney Atkins is a country music star, although HIS marketing staff might need a little nudge. Doesn't look like there is any mention of his appearance at AP on his site.
And of course, AP makes sure to put it on their site
Is it me, or does it always seem like AP is an island, seemingly always doing the right things when it comes to promotion and marketing?
Just curious.
Apologies for the triteness of this post, I really do hope Barbaro gets through this. If he does, this only adds to his mystique and is only good for the game.
In other good horsie news, it looks like someone is actually being pro-active in a horse related marketing department:
From allaccess.com:
Drew Walker & Rodney Atkins Bet On The Ponies
CBS RADIO Country )/CHICAGO afternoon stud DREW WALKER will be doing his show live today (3p-7p) with RODNEY ATKINS from the WINDY CITY's gorgeous horse track, ARLINGTON PARK. Country star ATKINS will be on hand to sign autographs, dole out hugs, and teach DREW how to bet a superfecta.
Here is the host's homepage:
Drew Walker
I guess Rodney Atkins is a country music star, although HIS marketing staff might need a little nudge. Doesn't look like there is any mention of his appearance at AP on his site.
And of course, AP makes sure to put it on their site
Is it me, or does it always seem like AP is an island, seemingly always doing the right things when it comes to promotion and marketing?
Just curious.
Apologies for the triteness of this post, I really do hope Barbaro gets through this. If he does, this only adds to his mystique and is only good for the game.
Thursday, July 13, 2006
Uplifting Story
I came across this on Craigslist. I think you'll enjoy it....
Mayonnaise jar & 2 cups of coffee . . .
When things in your life seem almost too much to handle,
when 24 hours in a day is not enough, remember the mayonnaise jar and 2 cups of coffee.
A professor stood before his philosophy class and had some items in front of him.
When the class began, wordlessly, he picked up a very large and empty mayonnaise jar and proceeded to fill it with golf balls.
He then asked the students if the jar was full.
They agreed that it was.
The professor then picked up a box of pebbles and poured them into the jar.
He shook the jar lightly. The pebbles rolled into the open areas between the golf balls.
He then asked the students again if the jar was full…. They agreed it was.
The professor next picked up a box of sand and poured it into the jar.
Of course, the sand filled up everything else.
He asked once more if the jar was full.
The students responded with a unanimous…. " yes."
The professor then produced two cups of coffee from under the table and poured the entire contents into the jar, effectively filling the empty space between the sand.
The students laughed.
"Now," said the professor, as the laughter subsided…..
"I want you to recognize that this jar represents your life.
The golf balls are the important things God, family, children, health, friends, and favorite passions…. things that if everything else was lost and only they remained, your life would still be full.
The pebbles are the other things that matter…. like your job, house, and car.
The sand is everything else….the small stuff."
"If you put the sand into the jar first," he continued . . . "there is no room for the pebbles or the golf balls.
The same goes for life.
If you spend all your time and energy on the small stuff, you will never have room for the things that are important to you."
"So . Pay attention to the things that are critical to your happiness . . play with your children.
Take time to get medical checkups. Take your partner out to dinner. Play another 18.
There will always be time to clean the house and fix the disposal.
Take care of the golf balls first . . the things that really matter.
Set your priorities . . . the rest is just sand."
One of the students raised her hand and inquired what the coffee represented.
The professor smiled. "I'm glad you asked . . . it just goes to show you that no matter how full your life may seem…..
…there's always room for a couple of cups of coffee with a friend."
Mayonnaise jar & 2 cups of coffee . . .
When things in your life seem almost too much to handle,
when 24 hours in a day is not enough, remember the mayonnaise jar and 2 cups of coffee.
A professor stood before his philosophy class and had some items in front of him.
When the class began, wordlessly, he picked up a very large and empty mayonnaise jar and proceeded to fill it with golf balls.
He then asked the students if the jar was full.
They agreed that it was.
The professor then picked up a box of pebbles and poured them into the jar.
He shook the jar lightly. The pebbles rolled into the open areas between the golf balls.
He then asked the students again if the jar was full…. They agreed it was.
The professor next picked up a box of sand and poured it into the jar.
Of course, the sand filled up everything else.
He asked once more if the jar was full.
The students responded with a unanimous…. " yes."
The professor then produced two cups of coffee from under the table and poured the entire contents into the jar, effectively filling the empty space between the sand.
The students laughed.
"Now," said the professor, as the laughter subsided…..
"I want you to recognize that this jar represents your life.
The golf balls are the important things God, family, children, health, friends, and favorite passions…. things that if everything else was lost and only they remained, your life would still be full.
The pebbles are the other things that matter…. like your job, house, and car.
The sand is everything else….the small stuff."
"If you put the sand into the jar first," he continued . . . "there is no room for the pebbles or the golf balls.
The same goes for life.
If you spend all your time and energy on the small stuff, you will never have room for the things that are important to you."
"So . Pay attention to the things that are critical to your happiness . . play with your children.
Take time to get medical checkups. Take your partner out to dinner. Play another 18.
There will always be time to clean the house and fix the disposal.
Take care of the golf balls first . . the things that really matter.
Set your priorities . . . the rest is just sand."
One of the students raised her hand and inquired what the coffee represented.
The professor smiled. "I'm glad you asked . . . it just goes to show you that no matter how full your life may seem…..
…there's always room for a couple of cups of coffee with a friend."
Tuesday, July 11, 2006
"Looking good Billy Ray....."
Why start with horse racing when I don’t have to? One of my favorite Hollywood ladies had a surprise announcement this morning.
Sorry to say, she is now off the market.
In case you didn’t know, I’ve had this blog for about a year and a half – blogging more regularly over the past 12 months. I thought I had a pretty good grasp of all the horse racing that was available on the internets. Turns out. Wrong.
Looking for nothing in particular, I stumbled onto a "genre specific site."
Has anyone who happens to venture across this abyss of a domain name heard of this site? It is written in a Craigslist style of simplistic usability and is called The Derby List.
It looks like a very basic horse racing message board. Currently, I am in the process of figuring the whole thing out. I sent an email (as directed) to sign up for the mailing list and also gain access to said message board.
What prompted this? One of my favorite sites, due to its scope of coverage, is Equidaily. I always feel like those guys have there finger on the pulse. Do I go EVERYDAY? No. Do they do a great job? Yes. Politics aside, Equidaily is the horse-racing version of The Drudge Report.
Today, Equidaily had on their banner headline: “Anne: "I do have a marketing idea to throw out to you NTRA, DRF, Racetrack Executive types... tracks could have 'Date Day/Night' promotions (bring one with you or meet one there) that includes discounted services, giveaways, drawings from sponsoring local restaurants for a romantic dinner for two, etc."
The "quote" was actually a link that sent you here which then took me here.
It’s amazing how the internets often function as a Blade Runner -esque “Choose Your Own Adventure.”
Currently listening to Widespread Panic's new album, Earth to America. Panic is playing at a very cool local spot that has never hosted an outdoor show before. Should be interesting as showtime is listed for 5:45pm. Hopefully, as the mush weathermen are predicting, it doesn't rain. The forecast calls for a seasonal anonamly "chance of a shower."
If you'll notice, the McMenamins boys have never put on an outdoor show and their site reflects it. McMenamins can be known to be tight-asses at times. I am very curious to see how it goes. If you happen to have a few minutes and have never heard of McMenamins, you should read about the company. They own some really cool venues, but some of thier business philosophies falter as you slide down the ladder of importance with the organization. Everyone has a McMenamins story (or two). They have a specific brand that I assume they are proud of. Some of its practices have rubbed me the wrong way when I was unfrotunately forced to come face to face with them. That story is for another time. It is more enjoyable if you understand more about the McMenamins name brand of business.
Nonetheless, outdoor summer music ranks right up there with box seats for the Derby or a prime seat for The Breeders Cup or hitting the winner's circle for the first time as an owner. This week its Panic in Portland. Next week it's Pearl Jam at one of this countries top 3 outdoor music venues.....
"...feelin' good Louis!"
Sorry to say, she is now off the market.
In case you didn’t know, I’ve had this blog for about a year and a half – blogging more regularly over the past 12 months. I thought I had a pretty good grasp of all the horse racing that was available on the internets. Turns out. Wrong.
Looking for nothing in particular, I stumbled onto a "genre specific site."
Has anyone who happens to venture across this abyss of a domain name heard of this site? It is written in a Craigslist style of simplistic usability and is called The Derby List.
It looks like a very basic horse racing message board. Currently, I am in the process of figuring the whole thing out. I sent an email (as directed) to sign up for the mailing list and also gain access to said message board.
What prompted this? One of my favorite sites, due to its scope of coverage, is Equidaily. I always feel like those guys have there finger on the pulse. Do I go EVERYDAY? No. Do they do a great job? Yes. Politics aside, Equidaily is the horse-racing version of The Drudge Report.
Today, Equidaily had on their banner headline: “Anne: "I do have a marketing idea to throw out to you NTRA, DRF, Racetrack Executive types... tracks could have 'Date Day/Night' promotions (bring one with you or meet one there) that includes discounted services, giveaways, drawings from sponsoring local restaurants for a romantic dinner for two, etc."
The "quote" was actually a link that sent you here which then took me here.
It’s amazing how the internets often function as a Blade Runner -esque “Choose Your Own Adventure.”
Currently listening to Widespread Panic's new album, Earth to America. Panic is playing at a very cool local spot that has never hosted an outdoor show before. Should be interesting as showtime is listed for 5:45pm. Hopefully, as the mush weathermen are predicting, it doesn't rain. The forecast calls for a seasonal anonamly "chance of a shower."
If you'll notice, the McMenamins boys have never put on an outdoor show and their site reflects it. McMenamins can be known to be tight-asses at times. I am very curious to see how it goes. If you happen to have a few minutes and have never heard of McMenamins, you should read about the company. They own some really cool venues, but some of thier business philosophies falter as you slide down the ladder of importance with the organization. Everyone has a McMenamins story (or two). They have a specific brand that I assume they are proud of. Some of its practices have rubbed me the wrong way when I was unfrotunately forced to come face to face with them. That story is for another time. It is more enjoyable if you understand more about the McMenamins name brand of business.
Nonetheless, outdoor summer music ranks right up there with box seats for the Derby or a prime seat for The Breeders Cup or hitting the winner's circle for the first time as an owner. This week its Panic in Portland. Next week it's Pearl Jam at one of this countries top 3 outdoor music venues.....
"...feelin' good Louis!"
So, what did you do last night?
Instead of pouring over suspended trainer quotes, or rehashing short-fieled stakes races from the previous weekend, I geeked out and updated my blog roll/links.
Funny thing though, somehow I managed to completely move the entire column down a few yards.
DRATZ!!
Now I have to figure out how to move it back up the page where it belongs.
Any coding suggestions would be much appreciated.
Now back to "work."
UPDATE: So the wonders of the internets never cease to amaze me. Looks like my column is back hoome where it belongs. Feel free to puruse the updated links as I have reorganized and added soem of my daily internet(s) stops.
Funny thing though, somehow I managed to completely move the entire column down a few yards.
DRATZ!!
Now I have to figure out how to move it back up the page where it belongs.
Any coding suggestions would be much appreciated.
Now back to "work."
UPDATE: So the wonders of the internets never cease to amaze me. Looks like my column is back hoome where it belongs. Feel free to puruse the updated links as I have reorganized and added soem of my daily internet(s) stops.
Friday, July 07, 2006
Am I once a week?
It saddens me to think my blogging rate has dropped off faster than a GW approval rating. Face the facts I must – it’s been a tough stretch of putting together coherent, consistent thoughts for all the world to ingest over the past few weeks.
Where have I been? What have I been doing? Actually, I am not quite sure the answer to either of those questions. For sure, though, I haven’t been where I want to be – comfortably alone with my thoughts for a few hours a day. Just enough time to write and re-write, providing some sort of fodder for the few folks who saunter through this site.
I spent last weekend down at the Jersey shore. I was in town for a wedding, but got to stay at my old man’s house located about four blocks from the Atlantic (ocean that is) and around 3.75 miles from Monmouth Park.
After arriving in NJ on a Friday am red-eye, I managed to head on over to MP for the last few races on Saturday. Hosting one of my Portland friends* who I am (was) in the process of converting into a horse fan, I didn’t quite settle into the day like I would have preferred. Nonetheless, it was a great few hours. No cash's, but as the track was closing at 6pm due to the lame-ass budget crisis, I threw $20 down (def. a big bet for me) on the last race at Belmont Park. I thought I had the tout cold (thus the large win bet), but came up a nose short. Oh well, sometimes being hat close to being right is good enough for me.
Sunday we arrived prepared to “spend a day.” MP allows unlimited coolers into the grandstand and they have a huge picnic are with tables and umbrellas that span the entire backstretch. With the rumors of the track being closed due to the budget crisis, it wasn’t too difficult finding a table. With us, we had a brand new $20 cooler from K-Mart stocked with a dozen Bud Lights (aka the Portland Cosmo), a flask of Canadian Club and a small Gatorade bottle filled with tequila…..
Needless to say, by the 9th race, the 90+ degree temperature and the foggy-thick humidity deteriorated both my body and mind. No cashes later, we headed home.
It was fantastic to get a chance to sit down and meet the one and only Patrick P. of Pulling Hair. We were graced with Patrick’s presence sometime just before the 4th or 5th race. Patrick, toting his lovely 1 yr-old daughter, Molly, proceeded to pick a nice winner on his first tout (sans form nonetheless). Patrick loved the #3, and needless to say we didn’t pool our money for a 3-all-all triple, as place came in at 70-1 and show at a measly 75-1. YIKES!! At least my buddy had the 75-1 to show and was able to cash.
I’ll end my story here as long form bios usually bore me….
It is so awesome when the Internet can bring “virtual connections” into the real world leading to human interactions that would have never taken place were there no Internet. Patrick: how dare you compare blogging to internet dating!!! I think it’s awesome that people can communicate and learn about each other (sometimes thousands of miles away) only to have that relationship cemented with an actual meeting.
Ok, so maybe it is like Internet dating, but so what. I’m not looking for a date, just a few winners.
*This friend (Dale) informed me that there is a an "OTB" that is a Chinese Restaurant pretty close to my house. This I never knew and nearly blew me off my seat. With my new bike (given to me by a another friend) I will surely be checking out that joint and reporting back.
Where have I been? What have I been doing? Actually, I am not quite sure the answer to either of those questions. For sure, though, I haven’t been where I want to be – comfortably alone with my thoughts for a few hours a day. Just enough time to write and re-write, providing some sort of fodder for the few folks who saunter through this site.
I spent last weekend down at the Jersey shore. I was in town for a wedding, but got to stay at my old man’s house located about four blocks from the Atlantic (ocean that is) and around 3.75 miles from Monmouth Park.
After arriving in NJ on a Friday am red-eye, I managed to head on over to MP for the last few races on Saturday. Hosting one of my Portland friends* who I am (was) in the process of converting into a horse fan, I didn’t quite settle into the day like I would have preferred. Nonetheless, it was a great few hours. No cash's, but as the track was closing at 6pm due to the lame-ass budget crisis, I threw $20 down (def. a big bet for me) on the last race at Belmont Park. I thought I had the tout cold (thus the large win bet), but came up a nose short. Oh well, sometimes being hat close to being right is good enough for me.
Sunday we arrived prepared to “spend a day.” MP allows unlimited coolers into the grandstand and they have a huge picnic are with tables and umbrellas that span the entire backstretch. With the rumors of the track being closed due to the budget crisis, it wasn’t too difficult finding a table. With us, we had a brand new $20 cooler from K-Mart stocked with a dozen Bud Lights (aka the Portland Cosmo), a flask of Canadian Club and a small Gatorade bottle filled with tequila…..
Needless to say, by the 9th race, the 90+ degree temperature and the foggy-thick humidity deteriorated both my body and mind. No cashes later, we headed home.
It was fantastic to get a chance to sit down and meet the one and only Patrick P. of Pulling Hair. We were graced with Patrick’s presence sometime just before the 4th or 5th race. Patrick, toting his lovely 1 yr-old daughter, Molly, proceeded to pick a nice winner on his first tout (sans form nonetheless). Patrick loved the #3, and needless to say we didn’t pool our money for a 3-all-all triple, as place came in at 70-1 and show at a measly 75-1. YIKES!! At least my buddy had the 75-1 to show and was able to cash.
I’ll end my story here as long form bios usually bore me….
It is so awesome when the Internet can bring “virtual connections” into the real world leading to human interactions that would have never taken place were there no Internet. Patrick: how dare you compare blogging to internet dating!!! I think it’s awesome that people can communicate and learn about each other (sometimes thousands of miles away) only to have that relationship cemented with an actual meeting.
Ok, so maybe it is like Internet dating, but so what. I’m not looking for a date, just a few winners.
*This friend (Dale) informed me that there is a an "OTB" that is a Chinese Restaurant pretty close to my house. This I never knew and nearly blew me off my seat. With my new bike (given to me by a another friend) I will surely be checking out that joint and reporting back.
Tuesday, June 27, 2006
Randomness and some interest piquing
-On what seems like an endlessly long, excruciatingly slow week in both the real world and the horse racing world, a few items piqued my interest.
I first read about this over at our friend Jason’s blog.
For those of who may not know it, Jason Beem is the race caller at River Downs. Originally from Seattle, Jason honed his skills at Portland Meadows this past winter and scored his first full-time professional gig as a race caller for the summer season in lovely Cincinnati, Ohio. If you don’t check out his blog on a regular basis, I suggest you start. “J” does not post daily, but when he does, it is always a pretty interesting read.
The story was picked up on equidaily.com and stands as a fairly interesting news story. The internets come through once again. By offering unique insight from a completely different perspective, one blogger was able to enhance a seemingly benign story, making bloggers proud across both of G.W.’s internets’. Maybe when the season is over and Jason moves back to the Pacific NW he will decide to join the TBA.
-The World Series of Poker is under way, and if you are looking for in-depth coverage with a little bit of an edge, check out Pauly’s Blog. You get great insight into the month long event that you can't find anywhere else. Special sections such as "the last five players I took a 'leak' next too" being a fan favorite. You won't find THAT on ESPN.com. Beyond that, Pauly is not shy about pimping other great WSOP news sites. It's always a great read when things get slow at work.
-The good and the bad of capitalism and commercialism makes its way deeper into horseracing.
Anheuser-Busch has stepped in to drop some major loot on the next couple of Preakness' and Kentucky Debry’s broadcast on NBC. So the good is pretty clear: a nice infusion of cash by a major name brand with a boat load of dough and some invaluable cache with the 21-35 demo. The figures are not clear, but I do know that A-B (aka Bud, Bud Light, et. al.) dropped a cool $40 million (US) to be THE beer sponsor of the current World Cup over yonder in Deutshland. On the flip-side, I can’t help but be a touch bitter at the corporatism that A-B represents. The hippie in me will never get over mass consumption and commercialism. Good thing I live in the “Peoples Republic.” And yes, The Kentucky Derby presented by !YUM! Brands annoys me too - but for some reason a bit less than this deal.
-Peter Gammons has taken some heat lately, but he is still one of the better providers of professional sports insight. Get well to Peter!!
I first read about this over at our friend Jason’s blog.
For those of who may not know it, Jason Beem is the race caller at River Downs. Originally from Seattle, Jason honed his skills at Portland Meadows this past winter and scored his first full-time professional gig as a race caller for the summer season in lovely Cincinnati, Ohio. If you don’t check out his blog on a regular basis, I suggest you start. “J” does not post daily, but when he does, it is always a pretty interesting read.
The story was picked up on equidaily.com and stands as a fairly interesting news story. The internets come through once again. By offering unique insight from a completely different perspective, one blogger was able to enhance a seemingly benign story, making bloggers proud across both of G.W.’s internets’. Maybe when the season is over and Jason moves back to the Pacific NW he will decide to join the TBA.
-The World Series of Poker is under way, and if you are looking for in-depth coverage with a little bit of an edge, check out Pauly’s Blog. You get great insight into the month long event that you can't find anywhere else. Special sections such as "the last five players I took a 'leak' next too" being a fan favorite. You won't find THAT on ESPN.com. Beyond that, Pauly is not shy about pimping other great WSOP news sites. It's always a great read when things get slow at work.
-The good and the bad of capitalism and commercialism makes its way deeper into horseracing.
Anheuser-Busch has stepped in to drop some major loot on the next couple of Preakness' and Kentucky Debry’s broadcast on NBC. So the good is pretty clear: a nice infusion of cash by a major name brand with a boat load of dough and some invaluable cache with the 21-35 demo. The figures are not clear, but I do know that A-B (aka Bud, Bud Light, et. al.) dropped a cool $40 million (US) to be THE beer sponsor of the current World Cup over yonder in Deutshland. On the flip-side, I can’t help but be a touch bitter at the corporatism that A-B represents. The hippie in me will never get over mass consumption and commercialism. Good thing I live in the “Peoples Republic.” And yes, The Kentucky Derby presented by !YUM! Brands annoys me too - but for some reason a bit less than this deal.
-Peter Gammons has taken some heat lately, but he is still one of the better providers of professional sports insight. Get well to Peter!!
Thursday, June 22, 2006
"Blame Canada"
WHEW!! That was close. I almost made it another 10 days without posting.
There isn’t much to write about. I just wanted to get off the ugly schneid that is posting laziness.
Congrats to fellow TBA-ers Jessica, Michael + Alan for their great news this week. Thank you also to these folks, because their good news helped get me out of my “pre-July 4th horse extravaganza funk” which had settle din quite mightily.
I don’t see much wagering action for me until next weekend – which is fine with me. Don’t get me wrong, I’d love to be at the track everyday if possible, but really?
I hope everyone has a great weekend. Keep an eye on those pesky Canadians this weekend. I know I will (always do!).
There isn’t much to write about. I just wanted to get off the ugly schneid that is posting laziness.
Congrats to fellow TBA-ers Jessica, Michael + Alan for their great news this week. Thank you also to these folks, because their good news helped get me out of my “pre-July 4th horse extravaganza funk” which had settle din quite mightily.
I don’t see much wagering action for me until next weekend – which is fine with me. Don’t get me wrong, I’d love to be at the track everyday if possible, but really?
I hope everyone has a great weekend. Keep an eye on those pesky Canadians this weekend. I know I will (always do!).
Tuesday, June 13, 2006
It's only been three days
Leave it to me to post my Belmont follow-up some 72+ hours after the conclusion.
I got to watch the Belmont – like the Preakness – via TiVO, so I was able to FF through the commercials and seemingly endless Barbaro package pieces.
I think a big kudos to ABC for their coverage. Using Jerry Bailey to talk about in depth, picture-perfect intricacies like the starting gate, is a major plus. Throw in a little Hammerin Hank and some wise cracks from Kenny Mayne, and you’ve got yourself a little broadcast.
No one is better than Costas, but he always feels a little misplaced doing the horses. Tom Hammond knows his stuff, but his face–jobs/make-up deal always leave me a bit unsettled. I’ll take a hyperbolic, somewhat aged Brent Musberger any day!!
As far as touting and the result goes…. I am fine with the result. I never would have had Jazil, as I had given up on him a few weeks prior and I had ZERO interest in investing any of my hard earned cash in Bluegrass Cat.
Que sera, sera, I guess.
My next major touring efforts will be a July 4th weekend visit (or two) to Monmouth Park in New Jersey (the shore to be exact) and then the DRF Handicapping Tourney at Emerald Downs on July 30th. My friend Red and I have two entries that we are sharing – he being in NY, me at Emerald Downs. Let’s see how that works out!! If you want to read a cool story about my friend, Red, click here – it’s from Sunday’s New York Times so you have to register, but it’s FREE!!
-Do yourself a favor and check out THIS movie ASAP.
I got to watch the Belmont – like the Preakness – via TiVO, so I was able to FF through the commercials and seemingly endless Barbaro package pieces.
I think a big kudos to ABC for their coverage. Using Jerry Bailey to talk about in depth, picture-perfect intricacies like the starting gate, is a major plus. Throw in a little Hammerin Hank and some wise cracks from Kenny Mayne, and you’ve got yourself a little broadcast.
No one is better than Costas, but he always feels a little misplaced doing the horses. Tom Hammond knows his stuff, but his face–jobs/make-up deal always leave me a bit unsettled. I’ll take a hyperbolic, somewhat aged Brent Musberger any day!!
As far as touting and the result goes…. I am fine with the result. I never would have had Jazil, as I had given up on him a few weeks prior and I had ZERO interest in investing any of my hard earned cash in Bluegrass Cat.
Que sera, sera, I guess.
My next major touring efforts will be a July 4th weekend visit (or two) to Monmouth Park in New Jersey (the shore to be exact) and then the DRF Handicapping Tourney at Emerald Downs on July 30th. My friend Red and I have two entries that we are sharing – he being in NY, me at Emerald Downs. Let’s see how that works out!! If you want to read a cool story about my friend, Red, click here – it’s from Sunday’s New York Times so you have to register, but it’s FREE!!
-Do yourself a favor and check out THIS movie ASAP.
Friday, June 09, 2006
Picks....and selections, and recommendations...
O.k. back to business….
-Picks for the Belmont: I am going to stay away from the lower prices. Sunriver def. has a legit shot, although you couldn’t pay me enough to place a bet on Bluegrass Cat. That being said, I like two horses on top.
The sometimes key to handicapping – and this holds more water in the lower level races – find an angle. Find that one little difference that you either think gives you an edge, or at the very least separates one horse from the rest. Making that proper selection, that's what it's all about.
Both HIGH FINANCE and OH SO AWESOME offer unique potential angles that lead me more towards them...
**Editorial side note: I really don’t think they have a legit shot at finishing 1-2, but one of the two to win is not out of the question. The betting dilemma comes in the decision…which one to single on top? This is the game. Can you make the better decision more times than not?
In HIGH FINANCE, my friend “Red” was kind enough to point out to me the 1-mile workout the Richard Violette trained colt put in the Sunday before Memorial Day. It is not often you see mile-long workouts and HIGH FINANCE is the only horse in the field with a marathon prep.
OH SO AWESOME’s last race is one of my favorite betting angles. Closing in the slop/mud. We all know how speed favoring a wet track can be, so whenever I see a horse put in a nice closing effort in less than ideal conditions, I take note. Beyond that, this horse was slated for a grass effort in his last and closed to third in the “off the turf” 72K Match Hatch Stakes. He has gone 1 ¼ miles once before and you have to love anything Jimmy Jerkens throws out in a Triple Crown race (25% winners so far at the meet, also).
I won’t completely get rid of Sunriver or Bob and John. For the final leg of the Triple Crown I will be using two, three-horse ex/tri box combinations:
2-5-6 & 4-5-6.
I do not like to bet speed very often, so for the win I’ll use the longer shot OH SO AWESOME.
-Alan at LATG put the attendance over/under at 54k. I am thinking anything over 50k and the NYRA (and the horseracing world) will be ecstatic. My prediction (ok, maybe it's hope) is that it will be between 50 and 55. I can’t see 60, but I also don’t think (hope) 40. Folks in the NY area love going out to Belmont for the big day and I have faith that they will flock to the Queens via car, bus and LIRR.
-My pick for the World Cup:
ENGLAND @ 6-1 (Brazil is the 9-4 favorite)
-It will be interesting to see how many races are shown tomorrow. Over on Equidaily.com, there was a call to arms for horse racing fans to send ABC an email demanding that they show all four races leading up to the Belmont (2+ hour coverage). Seems to make sense, right? Do something for the horseracing fan? Stoke a little interest? Well, keep that common sense thing in to a minimum when you are talking NTRA and their handling of television marketing. Yes, it is ultimately ABC's chouce what tey do, but I blame the TRA for not having a heavier hand. This is just another example of awful brand management. Don't count on see too much of the first three legs of the guaranteed $1 million dollar pick-4 live. Too many Barbaro stories to do.
Two non-horse notes:
1) Lewis Black premieres his new stand up on HBO Saturday night at 10pm EST. If you have never heard or seen Lewis, you should REALLY check him out.
2) Season premiere of Entourage is Sunday night at 10pm EST. Another show not to miss. Only in its third season, so you still have time to catch up. If you don’t have HBO, get the DVD’s. It is well worth it.
Good luck to everyone this weekend.
-Picks for the Belmont: I am going to stay away from the lower prices. Sunriver def. has a legit shot, although you couldn’t pay me enough to place a bet on Bluegrass Cat. That being said, I like two horses on top.
The sometimes key to handicapping – and this holds more water in the lower level races – find an angle. Find that one little difference that you either think gives you an edge, or at the very least separates one horse from the rest. Making that proper selection, that's what it's all about.
Both HIGH FINANCE and OH SO AWESOME offer unique potential angles that lead me more towards them...
**Editorial side note: I really don’t think they have a legit shot at finishing 1-2, but one of the two to win is not out of the question. The betting dilemma comes in the decision…which one to single on top? This is the game. Can you make the better decision more times than not?
In HIGH FINANCE, my friend “Red” was kind enough to point out to me the 1-mile workout the Richard Violette trained colt put in the Sunday before Memorial Day. It is not often you see mile-long workouts and HIGH FINANCE is the only horse in the field with a marathon prep.
OH SO AWESOME’s last race is one of my favorite betting angles. Closing in the slop/mud. We all know how speed favoring a wet track can be, so whenever I see a horse put in a nice closing effort in less than ideal conditions, I take note. Beyond that, this horse was slated for a grass effort in his last and closed to third in the “off the turf” 72K Match Hatch Stakes. He has gone 1 ¼ miles once before and you have to love anything Jimmy Jerkens throws out in a Triple Crown race (25% winners so far at the meet, also).
I won’t completely get rid of Sunriver or Bob and John. For the final leg of the Triple Crown I will be using two, three-horse ex/tri box combinations:
2-5-6 & 4-5-6.
I do not like to bet speed very often, so for the win I’ll use the longer shot OH SO AWESOME.
-Alan at LATG put the attendance over/under at 54k. I am thinking anything over 50k and the NYRA (and the horseracing world) will be ecstatic. My prediction (ok, maybe it's hope) is that it will be between 50 and 55. I can’t see 60, but I also don’t think (hope) 40. Folks in the NY area love going out to Belmont for the big day and I have faith that they will flock to the Queens via car, bus and LIRR.
-My pick for the World Cup:
ENGLAND @ 6-1 (Brazil is the 9-4 favorite)
-It will be interesting to see how many races are shown tomorrow. Over on Equidaily.com, there was a call to arms for horse racing fans to send ABC an email demanding that they show all four races leading up to the Belmont (2+ hour coverage). Seems to make sense, right? Do something for the horseracing fan? Stoke a little interest? Well, keep that common sense thing in to a minimum when you are talking NTRA and their handling of television marketing. Yes, it is ultimately ABC's chouce what tey do, but I blame the TRA for not having a heavier hand. This is just another example of awful brand management. Don't count on see too much of the first three legs of the guaranteed $1 million dollar pick-4 live. Too many Barbaro stories to do.
Two non-horse notes:
1) Lewis Black premieres his new stand up on HBO Saturday night at 10pm EST. If you have never heard or seen Lewis, you should REALLY check him out.
2) Season premiere of Entourage is Sunday night at 10pm EST. Another show not to miss. Only in its third season, so you still have time to catch up. If you don’t have HBO, get the DVD’s. It is well worth it.
Good luck to everyone this weekend.
Sunday, June 04, 2006
"State of a state. State of a state of a union..."
It seems like it’s been a quiet weekend of horseracing. A final lull before the final leg of the Triple Crown.
Soon all the mainstream media who come to the backstretch, the front stretch, or the breeding farms from about the first week in May until the 2nd or 3rd week of June, will go back to their boring world of everyday sports writing. Drumming up stories where there were none to begin with will not cease, it will only spread slowly to where these writers feel most comfortable or feel they are needed most. The College World Series, the World Cup, NFL pre-season (ugh) and yes, maybe even a FEW will go on to Edmonton or North Carolina for the National Curling Championships.
Stay tuned here, to the RACING UNDERWOLRD to feel the pain, frustration, anger, adulation, joy and excitement of the REAL horseracing world. Reading right here, right now, you will find the passion and strength of honesty and conviction that this sport needs to expand and grow, infiltrating the consciousness of this country's sprots minds.
Horse racing is not going anywhere. It is too big financially to ever disappear (SYNIC!!). However, if the Fran Magnas and Donald Trumps of the world don’t wise up, the power and influence that they have become so used too, will implode from beneath their feet like Crater Lake some 7,700 years ago.
It is here where the creative ideas stir in a cauldron of love and devotion, that the future of this great game lies.
In the coming days, don’t believe the hype about how uninteresting or boring the Belmont Stakes. Don’t believe the nay sayers who will call out Barbaro’s unfortuanteness and demand the game be done-for.
This can be a glorious time in the fabulous world of horseracing. We are currently running behind the eight-ball that is popular consciousness, common sense and mainstream media’s short-sidedness.
The future is bright. The industry needs to take its blinkers off and clean out the blue-blood. You don’t have to get rid of it, just flush it out like a dialysis machine and bring it back in to your system with a fresh outlook – maybe a little more indigo?
Soon all the mainstream media who come to the backstretch, the front stretch, or the breeding farms from about the first week in May until the 2nd or 3rd week of June, will go back to their boring world of everyday sports writing. Drumming up stories where there were none to begin with will not cease, it will only spread slowly to where these writers feel most comfortable or feel they are needed most. The College World Series, the World Cup, NFL pre-season (ugh) and yes, maybe even a FEW will go on to Edmonton or North Carolina for the National Curling Championships.
Stay tuned here, to the RACING UNDERWOLRD to feel the pain, frustration, anger, adulation, joy and excitement of the REAL horseracing world. Reading right here, right now, you will find the passion and strength of honesty and conviction that this sport needs to expand and grow, infiltrating the consciousness of this country's sprots minds.
Horse racing is not going anywhere. It is too big financially to ever disappear (SYNIC!!). However, if the Fran Magnas and Donald Trumps of the world don’t wise up, the power and influence that they have become so used too, will implode from beneath their feet like Crater Lake some 7,700 years ago.
It is here where the creative ideas stir in a cauldron of love and devotion, that the future of this great game lies.
In the coming days, don’t believe the hype about how uninteresting or boring the Belmont Stakes. Don’t believe the nay sayers who will call out Barbaro’s unfortuanteness and demand the game be done-for.
This can be a glorious time in the fabulous world of horseracing. We are currently running behind the eight-ball that is popular consciousness, common sense and mainstream media’s short-sidedness.
The future is bright. The industry needs to take its blinkers off and clean out the blue-blood. You don’t have to get rid of it, just flush it out like a dialysis machine and bring it back in to your system with a fresh outlook – maybe a little more indigo?
Thursday, June 01, 2006
Tillamook County Fair Dates
Ok, I found it. For those of you interested, feel free to join us in lvely Tillamook, Oregon August 9-12, 2006. Tillamook County Fair
Tuesday, May 30, 2006
Slacker, yes.
This post is brought to you by Patrick.
Yes, tis’ true; this blog has been left unattended for what seems to be (thanks to Patrick) 10 days.
No, it doesn’t mean I’ve been wallowing over the events that took place at Pimlico nearly two weeks ago. In fact, I have been doing a lot, and all I needed was a swift kick in the arse.
Hey, that’s what Friends are for.
Don’t ask me how, but incredibly and surprisingly, I managed to make a stop this past holiday Weekend at Grants Pass Downs for the first stop on the summer fairgrounds tour.
GPD was very cool and unique. A tiny track that actually houses a high school football field in the infield. I was able to witness a few races – the highlight being a 1 1/16 race that went FOUR turns!! The folks I was with – non horse fans- were delighted to be so close to the horses and the excitement. As as I. Where else do they sell 50/50 raffles (benefitting the local high school marching band I tink) at the racetrack? For those of you keeping track at home, it was a quinellas only affair (with Tri's also offered).
I guess now I HAVE to go visit Tillamook in a few weeks when the fair circuit moves to the coastal, cheese famous town.
So, after being swamped with work, I was able to see the horses in a new, unique environ, check out some Redwoods, hang out with locals in Crescent City, Calif, spend time enjoying the New England feel of Ashland, Ore., and witness the sheer beauty of Crater Lake.
1,100 miles later I was back in reality. Getting my b*&#s busted for having the same post up for 10 days.
I guess life is not so bad.
Here are some photos:
Race 1 - Sunday May 28th, 2006
Road trip crew (me taking the photo)
Yes, tis’ true; this blog has been left unattended for what seems to be (thanks to Patrick) 10 days.
No, it doesn’t mean I’ve been wallowing over the events that took place at Pimlico nearly two weeks ago. In fact, I have been doing a lot, and all I needed was a swift kick in the arse.
Hey, that’s what Friends are for.
Don’t ask me how, but incredibly and surprisingly, I managed to make a stop this past holiday Weekend at Grants Pass Downs for the first stop on the summer fairgrounds tour.
GPD was very cool and unique. A tiny track that actually houses a high school football field in the infield. I was able to witness a few races – the highlight being a 1 1/16 race that went FOUR turns!! The folks I was with – non horse fans- were delighted to be so close to the horses and the excitement. As as I. Where else do they sell 50/50 raffles (benefitting the local high school marching band I tink) at the racetrack? For those of you keeping track at home, it was a quinellas only affair (with Tri's also offered).
I guess now I HAVE to go visit Tillamook in a few weeks when the fair circuit moves to the coastal, cheese famous town.
So, after being swamped with work, I was able to see the horses in a new, unique environ, check out some Redwoods, hang out with locals in Crescent City, Calif, spend time enjoying the New England feel of Ashland, Ore., and witness the sheer beauty of Crater Lake.
1,100 miles later I was back in reality. Getting my b*&#s busted for having the same post up for 10 days.
I guess life is not so bad.
Here are some photos:
Race 1 - Sunday May 28th, 2006
Road trip crew (me taking the photo)
Sunday, May 21, 2006
'Tis a tough day....
Where do you even start talking about yesterday’s tragic, eventful day of horse racing?
It is times like these that truly challenge a neophyte’s writing skills. All of the emotion. Huge quantities of action –both on and off the track. Is it insensitive to focus on the race and betting rather than the tragedy and transcending pain?
One interesting note I came across was over at LATG, where a reader commented about Barbarino’s early exit from the gate – a false start if you will:
“Do you think it possible that Barbaro knew he was hurt, and busted out of the gate to spare himself from running the race? It seems like odd behavior, for a horse who seemed to genuinely love a good race...”
Very interesting. I brought this idea up to the girlfriend who grew up on a horse farm and demanded that I stop the TiVo so we could watch the race together. She loves to tell me over and over how stupid the t-breds are and how high strung and difficult they are/can be. When I posed this eerie theory (is that allegory or alliteration?) she poo-pooed it rather succinctly:
“It’s not likely that there was any THOUGHT put into breaking through the gate early to TRY and get scratched. There is no logic going on with the horse linking breaking through the gate early and not having to race. However, there is a good chance that he WAS feeling something awry within. This subconscious physiological action that was making him feel completely out of whack – a sense of not being right - dictated the action that pushed him forward prematurely.”
I buy it.
But in the end, who really cares. It was a sickening event and continues to try the soul.
A sadder fact though, is that a lot of people are pretending to actually care about the horse, when we all know deep down, for those vested, this is strictly “monetary based sympathy.”
However, for once I will forgo the cynicism and pessimism and offer the following:
Larger than winning a triple crown, could this horse EVER get well enough to race again and WIN? That would be the biggest story, the greatest pr push this sport could ever have. It’s not likely, but it would be nice.
Finally, did we need any more evidence of exactly who and what Fran Stronach actually is? Thanks for ending all of the doubt about your character, sir.
It is times like these that truly challenge a neophyte’s writing skills. All of the emotion. Huge quantities of action –both on and off the track. Is it insensitive to focus on the race and betting rather than the tragedy and transcending pain?
One interesting note I came across was over at LATG, where a reader commented about Barbarino’s early exit from the gate – a false start if you will:
“Do you think it possible that Barbaro knew he was hurt, and busted out of the gate to spare himself from running the race? It seems like odd behavior, for a horse who seemed to genuinely love a good race...”
Very interesting. I brought this idea up to the girlfriend who grew up on a horse farm and demanded that I stop the TiVo so we could watch the race together. She loves to tell me over and over how stupid the t-breds are and how high strung and difficult they are/can be. When I posed this eerie theory (is that allegory or alliteration?) she poo-pooed it rather succinctly:
“It’s not likely that there was any THOUGHT put into breaking through the gate early to TRY and get scratched. There is no logic going on with the horse linking breaking through the gate early and not having to race. However, there is a good chance that he WAS feeling something awry within. This subconscious physiological action that was making him feel completely out of whack – a sense of not being right - dictated the action that pushed him forward prematurely.”
I buy it.
But in the end, who really cares. It was a sickening event and continues to try the soul.
A sadder fact though, is that a lot of people are pretending to actually care about the horse, when we all know deep down, for those vested, this is strictly “monetary based sympathy.”
However, for once I will forgo the cynicism and pessimism and offer the following:
Larger than winning a triple crown, could this horse EVER get well enough to race again and WIN? That would be the biggest story, the greatest pr push this sport could ever have. It’s not likely, but it would be nice.
Finally, did we need any more evidence of exactly who and what Fran Stronach actually is? Thanks for ending all of the doubt about your character, sir.
Friday, May 19, 2006
Sweetnorthernsaintbernadini
Oy. Somehow I have the feeling that Bernadini will be the Preakness' version of SNS from two weeks ago.
With everyone scrambling for value, it looks like Bernadini is the fashionable pick.
The big question in my mind is what will the final odds look like? Will Brother Derek drift upwards from his expected 2-1ish price? What will the late-money-taking SNS finish up at? Will Vinny Barbarino go off at less than Even Money?
It almost sounds like the last scene of the old Batman TV show....."tune in next time (The Preakness) to find out if Modest Michael Matz can overcome the media squeeze.....Can our Italian Named favorite break the Even money barrier....is Like Now, like fast enough? Tune in this Saturday as Terrible Tom Hammond (terrible as in terrible makeup/facelift) guides us along the slippery slope of the middle leg of the Triple Crown (brought to you by YUM! brands.com)"
Now back to reality.
In a perfect world I would like to see Bernadini somewhere around or above 8-1 and Brother Derek no worse than 5/2 just to have some real action. I don't think either of those is a reality, though.
Do I think Vinny Barbarino is going to lose? No. Did I bet him? No. Did I even include him in my three-horse exacta box? You guessed it. Negative.
I like 1. Brother Derek 2. Bernadini 3.Diabolical in a three-horse exacta box and a cheap tri-box.
What fun is it to use Vinny B. in the mix here unless I was working with straight tris or supers?
My prediction is that Barbarino wins by about 2 1/4 and a nice fat priced horse comes out on top in the Belmont June 10th.
We back to our regularly scheduled programming.
With everyone scrambling for value, it looks like Bernadini is the fashionable pick.
The big question in my mind is what will the final odds look like? Will Brother Derek drift upwards from his expected 2-1ish price? What will the late-money-taking SNS finish up at? Will Vinny Barbarino go off at less than Even Money?
It almost sounds like the last scene of the old Batman TV show....."tune in next time (The Preakness) to find out if Modest Michael Matz can overcome the media squeeze.....Can our Italian Named favorite break the Even money barrier....is Like Now, like fast enough? Tune in this Saturday as Terrible Tom Hammond (terrible as in terrible makeup/facelift) guides us along the slippery slope of the middle leg of the Triple Crown (brought to you by YUM! brands.com)"
Now back to reality.
In a perfect world I would like to see Bernadini somewhere around or above 8-1 and Brother Derek no worse than 5/2 just to have some real action. I don't think either of those is a reality, though.
Do I think Vinny Barbarino is going to lose? No. Did I bet him? No. Did I even include him in my three-horse exacta box? You guessed it. Negative.
I like 1. Brother Derek 2. Bernadini 3.Diabolical in a three-horse exacta box and a cheap tri-box.
What fun is it to use Vinny B. in the mix here unless I was working with straight tris or supers?
My prediction is that Barbarino wins by about 2 1/4 and a nice fat priced horse comes out on top in the Belmont June 10th.
We back to our regularly scheduled programming.
Thursday, May 18, 2006
Tuesday, May 16, 2006
Who will win the Preakness?
-Welcome Back Kotter is etched in my memory like so many of the 70's and 80's sit-coms that permeated my brain for so many childhood hours. Who knew the glory that was Mr. Kah-TARE, Arnold Horshak, Epstien and of course Vinny Barbarino only lasted three seasons. If you read the imdb link in the previous post you might have noticed this tidbit:
"The writing was great. The timing was awesome. The theme song by John Sebastian is breathtaking. The show was purely magical in its first few seasons.
There were problems, as life deals us sometimes.
Gabe Kaplan's lack of involvement in the show's fourth and final season was just one of the many problems which doomed the show. The writing in that final season was sloppy, unrealistic, unfunny, and was so amateurish. Another major problem with that show in the fourth season was that the actors who played the Sweathogs. The problem with actors playing teenagers is that they were older than teenagers when they began portraying those characters. To prepare to portray teens, they had to learn how to be teenagers again. It worked in the early days.
However, by the time the fourth season had arrived, the actors had matured and developed as adults where they were getting too old to portray teenagers anymore. They also did not look like teenagers, either. Let's not forget John Travolta and his blossoming as a movie star. These factors led to the demise of the series.
The series was about a concept so fresh, people in this modern era can relate to it even more now than they could back in the 70's."
I thought John from Southfield, MI summed that up nicely.
-As far as beverages go for Saturday, I obviously got this from our dear friend Quinella Queen a week ago, but it is certainly worth passing around as many times as possible. As far as drink comparisons, the Black-Eyed Susan sounds much better than any mint-julep I've ever had. Here is the actual recipe, but feel free to revisit QQ's post from May 10th for full, original effect.
-Is it possible to predict this far in advance?
from everything I am hearing and feeling around the paddock it seems that Barbaro is as close to a sure thing as any 3-5 shot 3 yr. old is.
my emotions are mixed. on one hand, it would be cool if there was FINALLY a triple crown winner. However, at the same time, my visions cannot help put the past few years behind me. It seems so anti-climactic at this point.
For the past few years we have "this is the next great horse" + "is this the next triple crown winner?"
I think my senses are dulled. I want Barbaro to lose to either Sweetnorthernsaint or Brother Derek. Two quality horses that if they should upset Matz' current star, can certainly be appreciated. I think that would set up a great Belmont where a lot of quality horses would be entered thinking they had a shot and would see a nice full, competitive Belmont field. Not unlike the Derby field.
"The writing was great. The timing was awesome. The theme song by John Sebastian is breathtaking. The show was purely magical in its first few seasons.
There were problems, as life deals us sometimes.
Gabe Kaplan's lack of involvement in the show's fourth and final season was just one of the many problems which doomed the show. The writing in that final season was sloppy, unrealistic, unfunny, and was so amateurish. Another major problem with that show in the fourth season was that the actors who played the Sweathogs. The problem with actors playing teenagers is that they were older than teenagers when they began portraying those characters. To prepare to portray teens, they had to learn how to be teenagers again. It worked in the early days.
However, by the time the fourth season had arrived, the actors had matured and developed as adults where they were getting too old to portray teenagers anymore. They also did not look like teenagers, either. Let's not forget John Travolta and his blossoming as a movie star. These factors led to the demise of the series.
The series was about a concept so fresh, people in this modern era can relate to it even more now than they could back in the 70's."
I thought John from Southfield, MI summed that up nicely.
-As far as beverages go for Saturday, I obviously got this from our dear friend Quinella Queen a week ago, but it is certainly worth passing around as many times as possible. As far as drink comparisons, the Black-Eyed Susan sounds much better than any mint-julep I've ever had. Here is the actual recipe, but feel free to revisit QQ's post from May 10th for full, original effect.
-Is it possible to predict this far in advance?
from everything I am hearing and feeling around the paddock it seems that Barbaro is as close to a sure thing as any 3-5 shot 3 yr. old is.
my emotions are mixed. on one hand, it would be cool if there was FINALLY a triple crown winner. However, at the same time, my visions cannot help put the past few years behind me. It seems so anti-climactic at this point.
For the past few years we have "this is the next great horse" + "is this the next triple crown winner?"
I think my senses are dulled. I want Barbaro to lose to either Sweetnorthernsaint or Brother Derek. Two quality horses that if they should upset Matz' current star, can certainly be appreciated. I think that would set up a great Belmont where a lot of quality horses would be entered thinking they had a shot and would see a nice full, competitive Belmont field. Not unlike the Derby field.
Monday, May 15, 2006
In case you're not getting it...
That is Vinny Barbarino to your right.
More substantive posts to follow. I promise.
Although, if Saturday's field stays at six, I will be pissed.
More substantive posts to follow. I promise.
Although, if Saturday's field stays at six, I will be pissed.
Thursday, May 11, 2006
Wednesday, May 10, 2006
How dope is this...
As I was brutally hung over waiting for my connection flight in Dallas on Sunday, I picked up a stray sports section from the Star-Telegram (Dallas/Ft.Worth).
First of all, what a GREAT overall sports section they have. This thing just towers over and stomps on my Oregonian.
However, one thing stood out at me (the dope comment) and here is the link.
"You want fries with your bet?"
Have you ever heard of drive through betting windows? What a fantastic idea!! I know my peeps in the greater NYC area would love this idea. To me, this is one of those quirky marketing ideas that makes me believe horseracing CAN have a bright future with just a little creativity.
First of all, what a GREAT overall sports section they have. This thing just towers over and stomps on my Oregonian.
However, one thing stood out at me (the dope comment) and here is the link.
"You want fries with your bet?"
Have you ever heard of drive through betting windows? What a fantastic idea!! I know my peeps in the greater NYC area would love this idea. To me, this is one of those quirky marketing ideas that makes me believe horseracing CAN have a bright future with just a little creativity.
Long time no winnings...
“It's hard to read about people struggling when they have no desire to actually improve their current conditions and live more in the moment. A lot of people who blog are lost souls hoping to connect with other lost souls. Sometimes they get lucky. But even the lucky ones are lonely at the core.”
I was going to begin my first post since ‘nam with something else, but I came across this quote pulled from Pauly’s blog. Interesting how that guy messes with my mind constantly. Pulls me quickly from joy to sorrow, then hurriedly back to pain and frustration and finally a little relief. Good writer that guy is.
I never did make it to a computer to post my Derby picks. That isn’t to say I haven’t checked out everyone else’s picks. The Derby was super fun to watch and be a part of from the fans perspective. I didn’t and wouldn’t have had Barbaro, I liked Point D. So much for that.
From Thursday through Sunday I was down in New Orleans for JazzFest and was unable to pull myself out of bed Saturday until 6pm. Between the Derby and my extremely limited sleep time, I decided to forgo a second day at the Fairgrounds in order to immerse myself in my passion – horses.
New Orleans is fucked up. Sorry to say. It is a sad, depressing place and I blame the federal government. All partisanship aside, Dem. or Rep. What the fed has done (or lacktherof) with just an incredible city is disgusting and disgraceful.
How do you abandon a great American city? All you see around town is abandonment of not just homes or streets, but ENTIRE NEIGHBORHOODS boarded up and left to rot. Obscenely sad. I strongly believe it is every American’s duty to go down there and visit. It is worth your time and money to visit first hand.
Instead of me going into more detail, just read these two quick recent articles about “famous people” experiencing New Orleans. These folks have seen it and their observations are not hyperbole or exaggeration.
Article #1
Article #2
I was going to begin my first post since ‘nam with something else, but I came across this quote pulled from Pauly’s blog. Interesting how that guy messes with my mind constantly. Pulls me quickly from joy to sorrow, then hurriedly back to pain and frustration and finally a little relief. Good writer that guy is.
I never did make it to a computer to post my Derby picks. That isn’t to say I haven’t checked out everyone else’s picks. The Derby was super fun to watch and be a part of from the fans perspective. I didn’t and wouldn’t have had Barbaro, I liked Point D. So much for that.
From Thursday through Sunday I was down in New Orleans for JazzFest and was unable to pull myself out of bed Saturday until 6pm. Between the Derby and my extremely limited sleep time, I decided to forgo a second day at the Fairgrounds in order to immerse myself in my passion – horses.
New Orleans is fucked up. Sorry to say. It is a sad, depressing place and I blame the federal government. All partisanship aside, Dem. or Rep. What the fed has done (or lacktherof) with just an incredible city is disgusting and disgraceful.
How do you abandon a great American city? All you see around town is abandonment of not just homes or streets, but ENTIRE NEIGHBORHOODS boarded up and left to rot. Obscenely sad. I strongly believe it is every American’s duty to go down there and visit. It is worth your time and money to visit first hand.
Instead of me going into more detail, just read these two quick recent articles about “famous people” experiencing New Orleans. These folks have seen it and their observations are not hyperbole or exaggeration.
Article #1
Article #2
Monday, April 24, 2006
"I'm lovin' it...."
THIS is why I love the Internets.
Mr. Crist may not actually read Patrick's site on a daily basis, but I bet he WILL view this one.
Mr. Crist may not actually read Patrick's site on a daily basis, but I bet he WILL view this one.
Saturday, April 22, 2006
Tough week for me and others...
In 1991 FOX debuted a TV show called “Herman’s Head”. Somehow, my 15 year-old television saturated mind fell in love with this show which counted amongst its young, yet to be famous cast; Hank Azaria and Yeardley Smith.
A contributor on imdb.com has put together a brief synopsis of the show which gives you a good idea about this show’s overall plot:
“Herman Brooks is an aspiring writer working as a fact-checker at a publisher. While dealing with life in the big city, his inner thoughts are played out by four characters representing his intellect, fear, compassion, and lust. His "outer world" consists of a trivia-trove boss, two female co-workers, one mouse-ish and the other a social-climbing bombshell, and a best friend who’s both a successful writer and a sexist pig”
The beauty of this show was how the viewer was able to literallywatch Herman’s head work out all of the moral dilemmas and difficult decisions each and every one of us has to face on a daily basis.
Unfortunately for me, I have recently been way too wrapped up in my own trials and tribulations to be able to enjoy my passions. My current job seems to at times suck all of the energy and pizzazz out of a once vibrant, fun, sometimes unpredictable existence. 40+ hours a week spent somewhere you really don’t want to be can have a severe negative effect on any creative output, and mine has been hit hard these past few weeks.
Unable to follow the past week’s comings and goings in the world of horseracing, the following are the only two horse related thoughts I came across all week. It took me until late Friday afternoon to see these two things:
1) “Bluegrass Cat's jockey injured, will miss Derby” (ESPN.com)
2) “Jockey John Velazquez to miss Derby with shoulder, chest injuries” (equidaily.com)
Finally, by 8 pm pt, I was able to understand the full impact of what had taken place in Thursday’s Forerunner Stakes at Keeneland by reading the myriad accounts of this awful event.
Coupled with my recent first time viewing of the Real Sports piece on the Jockeys Guild- filled with horrifying jockey spills- it is difficult to relay the amount of uncomfortably I had in my stomach reading each and every added detail of this story-photos included.
Compounded by the fact that the reprehensible Wayne Gertmanian is still fresh in my mind, all of these recent events add up to a disturbing inner feeling, leading to one uncomfortable horse racing fan.
As far as I go: This story is B-A-D for this sport.
Will it actually have any major impact on anything in the larger scope? Probably not. The Derby will still “sell out” with the maximum 20 entries and a rider will of course dutifully fill-in for Johnny V. The quest for the Triple Crown will go off as planned at 6:04 pm et and all our respective worlds will move on.
I’m fine with that. I just hope this sick feeling in my stomach goes away. I know it’s not just for the jockey. Thinking about that horse-and the many others before it- is just not sitting all that well with me right now.
-Emerald Downs opened for its 10th Anniversary season tonight. A 6pm (pt) post. I am looking forward to making AT LEAST(!) one visit there this year. For the first time ever, Emerald’s Ultimate Qualifying Tournament (for the DRF National Handicapping Tourney) will be asking for an entry fee. No complaints from me. Maybe this year I will be able to get in after being shut out for the past three years. If you’ve never been, Emerald is a really nice track set right at the base (ok, maybe a few miles off) of Mt. Rainier. For the East Coasters and Southern folks, that means a GIANT snow covered mountain just behind the first turn. Good times.
A contributor on imdb.com has put together a brief synopsis of the show which gives you a good idea about this show’s overall plot:
“Herman Brooks is an aspiring writer working as a fact-checker at a publisher. While dealing with life in the big city, his inner thoughts are played out by four characters representing his intellect, fear, compassion, and lust. His "outer world" consists of a trivia-trove boss, two female co-workers, one mouse-ish and the other a social-climbing bombshell, and a best friend who’s both a successful writer and a sexist pig”
The beauty of this show was how the viewer was able to literallywatch Herman’s head work out all of the moral dilemmas and difficult decisions each and every one of us has to face on a daily basis.
Unfortunately for me, I have recently been way too wrapped up in my own trials and tribulations to be able to enjoy my passions. My current job seems to at times suck all of the energy and pizzazz out of a once vibrant, fun, sometimes unpredictable existence. 40+ hours a week spent somewhere you really don’t want to be can have a severe negative effect on any creative output, and mine has been hit hard these past few weeks.
Unable to follow the past week’s comings and goings in the world of horseracing, the following are the only two horse related thoughts I came across all week. It took me until late Friday afternoon to see these two things:
1) “Bluegrass Cat's jockey injured, will miss Derby” (ESPN.com)
2) “Jockey John Velazquez to miss Derby with shoulder, chest injuries” (equidaily.com)
Finally, by 8 pm pt, I was able to understand the full impact of what had taken place in Thursday’s Forerunner Stakes at Keeneland by reading the myriad accounts of this awful event.
Coupled with my recent first time viewing of the Real Sports piece on the Jockeys Guild- filled with horrifying jockey spills- it is difficult to relay the amount of uncomfortably I had in my stomach reading each and every added detail of this story-photos included.
Compounded by the fact that the reprehensible Wayne Gertmanian is still fresh in my mind, all of these recent events add up to a disturbing inner feeling, leading to one uncomfortable horse racing fan.
As far as I go: This story is B-A-D for this sport.
Will it actually have any major impact on anything in the larger scope? Probably not. The Derby will still “sell out” with the maximum 20 entries and a rider will of course dutifully fill-in for Johnny V. The quest for the Triple Crown will go off as planned at 6:04 pm et and all our respective worlds will move on.
I’m fine with that. I just hope this sick feeling in my stomach goes away. I know it’s not just for the jockey. Thinking about that horse-and the many others before it- is just not sitting all that well with me right now.
-Emerald Downs opened for its 10th Anniversary season tonight. A 6pm (pt) post. I am looking forward to making AT LEAST(!) one visit there this year. For the first time ever, Emerald’s Ultimate Qualifying Tournament (for the DRF National Handicapping Tourney) will be asking for an entry fee. No complaints from me. Maybe this year I will be able to get in after being shut out for the past three years. If you’ve never been, Emerald is a really nice track set right at the base (ok, maybe a few miles off) of Mt. Rainier. For the East Coasters and Southern folks, that means a GIANT snow covered mountain just behind the first turn. Good times.
Wednesday, April 19, 2006
Tough Weekend...
There has been A LOT of action over the past few days and I have been absent here on ye olde blog.
I did have many a words to put together following the weekends flurry of Derby action and other horse related matters that were all put on the way back burner when some (one?) lowlife(s) decided to kick in my basement door and ransack my house for $20 or $30 bucs for his/her meth habit.
Luckily, these a#$holes only got my super low end DVD/VCR combo player which cost me all of $50. However, as anyone who has ever been robbed (their home specifically) knows, it is more the violation you feel than the loss of material items.
Several hundred dollars later, my home is now just shy of Ft. Knox status, which is both good and bad. Who really wants to live in a constant state of lockdown? I am sure the uncomfortableness and minor paranoia will subside within a relatively short amount of time.
Between wheeling Storm Treasure up and down, while not ACTUALLY getting the bet in – costing me $300+ dollars- and having my house ransacked, it was not the best of times this past weekend.
All is well now, though it takes me three separate turns of the key to even step foot inside my own house.
My hockey team unleashed a furious “closing kick” to win the Atlantic Division and were rewarded with a seven-game series with those pesky Blueshirts. For more information (though biased as it may be) check out Alan’s Rangers blog.
For the worst piece of news I saw all day (except for those minor resignations and people losing their lives for $4.50/gallon gas) go HERE
I did have many a words to put together following the weekends flurry of Derby action and other horse related matters that were all put on the way back burner when some (one?) lowlife(s) decided to kick in my basement door and ransack my house for $20 or $30 bucs for his/her meth habit.
Luckily, these a#$holes only got my super low end DVD/VCR combo player which cost me all of $50. However, as anyone who has ever been robbed (their home specifically) knows, it is more the violation you feel than the loss of material items.
Several hundred dollars later, my home is now just shy of Ft. Knox status, which is both good and bad. Who really wants to live in a constant state of lockdown? I am sure the uncomfortableness and minor paranoia will subside within a relatively short amount of time.
Between wheeling Storm Treasure up and down, while not ACTUALLY getting the bet in – costing me $300+ dollars- and having my house ransacked, it was not the best of times this past weekend.
All is well now, though it takes me three separate turns of the key to even step foot inside my own house.
My hockey team unleashed a furious “closing kick” to win the Atlantic Division and were rewarded with a seven-game series with those pesky Blueshirts. For more information (though biased as it may be) check out Alan’s Rangers blog.
For the worst piece of news I saw all day (except for those minor resignations and people losing their lives for $4.50/gallon gas) go HERE
Wednesday, April 12, 2006
It's about time
It’s about time THIS finally showed up on our radar screens. Our moles inside the industry had alerted US to this latest development in media coverage surrounding horse racing. The Daily Racing Form is usually right on in keeping up with the outside world in terms of media coverage—maybe only a half-step behind.
With the added possibilities of folks linking here because of JOHN, I felt it was a good time to update ye’ olde site. I did have a nice picture of a spring-butterfly in my profile, but that has changed (or will change whenever blogger feels like registering it).
I know I have been remiss in posting anything worthwhile regarding the Derby, but to tell you the truth, I am not that into the yearly speculation that is the Derby.
Don’t get me wrong, I am truly in love with the whole Derby concept-fastest two minutes in sports, etc.-but endless jibber-jabber and dosage references and blood lines and distance questions never quite captures my attention.
Added to that, I am not even sure I’ll be able to watch the Derby live this year. On the first Saturday in May I will be in New Orleans for JazzFest. Ironically, I will be at The Fairgrounds, normally a good place to catch a race on TV. However, I am not sure if while attending JazzFest at FG I will be able to catch the race live; or worse yet NOT EVEN PLACE A BET!!
I have placed an inquiry to Churchill Mgmt. Via the Fairgrounds WEBSITE, but have heard nothing yet. Needless to say, I will not be posting any selections or predictions for this year’s Derby until PP’s are drawn Derby week.
Again, don’t get me wrong, Derby day is truly a great day for horse racing and EVEN America in general. However, the Super Bowl-ish hype and buildup leading up to it (ranging anywhere from 1-365 days) does not interest me much. I leave that up to the PROS
With the added possibilities of folks linking here because of JOHN, I felt it was a good time to update ye’ olde site. I did have a nice picture of a spring-butterfly in my profile, but that has changed (or will change whenever blogger feels like registering it).
I know I have been remiss in posting anything worthwhile regarding the Derby, but to tell you the truth, I am not that into the yearly speculation that is the Derby.
Don’t get me wrong, I am truly in love with the whole Derby concept-fastest two minutes in sports, etc.-but endless jibber-jabber and dosage references and blood lines and distance questions never quite captures my attention.
Added to that, I am not even sure I’ll be able to watch the Derby live this year. On the first Saturday in May I will be in New Orleans for JazzFest. Ironically, I will be at The Fairgrounds, normally a good place to catch a race on TV. However, I am not sure if while attending JazzFest at FG I will be able to catch the race live; or worse yet NOT EVEN PLACE A BET!!
I have placed an inquiry to Churchill Mgmt. Via the Fairgrounds WEBSITE, but have heard nothing yet. Needless to say, I will not be posting any selections or predictions for this year’s Derby until PP’s are drawn Derby week.
Again, don’t get me wrong, Derby day is truly a great day for horse racing and EVEN America in general. However, the Super Bowl-ish hype and buildup leading up to it (ranging anywhere from 1-365 days) does not interest me much. I leave that up to the PROS
Thursday, April 06, 2006
Not to be too heavy on Oregon-centric posts, but....
Remember the old Israel tourism commercials? "Come to Israel, come stay with friends..."
Well, I'm working on a new one for Oregon based on THIS.
Well, I'm working on a new one for Oregon based on THIS.
Wednesday, April 05, 2006
Triple Crown Radio
Just in case you are stuck in traffic during one of the three Triple Crown races for 2006:
from AllAccess.com:
Westwood One To Broadcast Triple Crown Races
WESTWOOD ONE will carry coverage of thoroughbred racing's TRIPLE CROWN this year, starting with the 132nd KENTUCKY DERBY on MAY 6 and including the PREAKNESS on MAY 20 and BELMONT on JUNE 10. The coverage will include ten short-form vignettes throughout the week prior to each race, two hours of pre-race coverage the FRIDAY prior to each race, and 90 minutes of long-form coverage on race day.
from AllAccess.com:
Westwood One To Broadcast Triple Crown Races
WESTWOOD ONE will carry coverage of thoroughbred racing's TRIPLE CROWN this year, starting with the 132nd KENTUCKY DERBY on MAY 6 and including the PREAKNESS on MAY 20 and BELMONT on JUNE 10. The coverage will include ten short-form vignettes throughout the week prior to each race, two hours of pre-race coverage the FRIDAY prior to each race, and 90 minutes of long-form coverage on race day.
Just biding my time
No posts over the last 8 days. Geeez. What a slacker. Got back from a few days of business in Seattle and now, back in Portland, I give you this tidbit of information: If you ever do make it to Portland, you MUST go HERE for lunch.
Yes, that is my pearl of wisdom for today.
THIS is only 31 days away and I have yet to make a peep about it. This will change soon, although don’t expect massive, in-depth coverage like you can find here, here, here, and here (and here).
In the meantime, keep yourself amused by doing whatever it is you find amusement in.
There.
Aren’t those some true words of wisdom?
Yes, that is my pearl of wisdom for today.
THIS is only 31 days away and I have yet to make a peep about it. This will change soon, although don’t expect massive, in-depth coverage like you can find here, here, here, and here (and here).
In the meantime, keep yourself amused by doing whatever it is you find amusement in.
There.
Aren’t those some true words of wisdom?
Tuesday, March 28, 2006
Monday, March 27, 2006
"Good things Rube" (name the movie)
An exhausting, yet gratifying weekend of horse racing is now complete and I have finally caught my breath.
Major kudos to Katrina and the Dubai Racing Carnival for hosting some of the most thorough coverage from this weekends Dubai World Cup.
Another high note was the first ever Thoroughbred Bloggers Alliance hosted chat room that took place all day Saturday. No need to go into too much detail as my talented colleagues did a splendid job of touting, chatting and summarizing the days events. Just click on any one of the links to the left and you will be entertained for hours!!
The only negative note from the weekend was this:
Horse Racing Fans Screwed Again!
The folks over at Equidaily encapsulate my entire thoughts and feelings from that afternoon---I MEAN TENNIS????? A non-major???? NOT the Finals? Oy.
Finally, if you read this post late last week by yours truly then you can appreciate what I've got for you below.
I am always amazed when I come across a responsive, personable, human media person who takes the time not only to answer your fan mail or stupid-ass query, but will even go out of their way to find out an ANSWER for you!! I worked at a major radio entertainment network a few years ago and we would get hundreds of inquires, comments and questions. I know how hard it can be to answer all of the feedback one can get when their work is broadcast all over the world. That's why when I received the following response from a letter I had sent to DRF's Dave Tuley, I was once again convinced that he is one of the classier, upper echelon in the media mayhem of our current world. (read the post linked above and you will understand what the response is all about):
Dave:
I'll just reply here and you can disseminate it as you see fit.
First a clarification: DRF, the company that signs my pay check sponsors the NHC and is certainly supportive of it, but pretty much leaves the running of it to the NTRA, so you're not hurting my feelings or ruffling the feathers of anyone at DRF by airing
complaints. Feedback is great, and the goal of everyone is to make this
thing as fair and equitable as possible. That being said...
What I'm told is that the NTRA and America Tab felt it was necessary to
do that to prevent fraud of people entering under multiple
names/addresses/etc. and circumventing the maximum entries per person rule and also
to protect against chargebacks if people claim they didn't enter (which
would already be added to NHC purse and wouldn't look right if it was
announced 200 people enter and then 20 chargeback to their credit cards
and people wonder where the extra $2,000 went).
I understand your reservations about doing it, but if you register at
YouBet or TVG, you'd have to supply your SS# to verify your identity. I
don't how this would change. If you want to lodge a formal complaint
with the NTRA, this is from the nhcqualify.com page:
If I have general questions about the National Handicapping
Championship program, who can I contact?
The NTRA administers the NHC program. McKay Smith, director of product
development for the NTRA, runs the day-to-day operations. He may be
contacted through the NTRA switchboard at 1-800-RACECUP or 859.223.5444,
or via e-mail at msmith@ntra.com.
Ok, it's not the Magna Carta, but would Tom Brokaw or even Steven Crist take the time to give that response? We at the TBA have attempted to contact many a media folk over the past year and I will tell you first hand that this type of response is extremely uncommon--yet highly valued and appreciated by yours truly.
Thanks, Dave!!
Major kudos to Katrina and the Dubai Racing Carnival for hosting some of the most thorough coverage from this weekends Dubai World Cup.
Another high note was the first ever Thoroughbred Bloggers Alliance hosted chat room that took place all day Saturday. No need to go into too much detail as my talented colleagues did a splendid job of touting, chatting and summarizing the days events. Just click on any one of the links to the left and you will be entertained for hours!!
The only negative note from the weekend was this:
Horse Racing Fans Screwed Again!
The folks over at Equidaily encapsulate my entire thoughts and feelings from that afternoon---I MEAN TENNIS????? A non-major???? NOT the Finals? Oy.
Finally, if you read this post late last week by yours truly then you can appreciate what I've got for you below.
I am always amazed when I come across a responsive, personable, human media person who takes the time not only to answer your fan mail or stupid-ass query, but will even go out of their way to find out an ANSWER for you!! I worked at a major radio entertainment network a few years ago and we would get hundreds of inquires, comments and questions. I know how hard it can be to answer all of the feedback one can get when their work is broadcast all over the world. That's why when I received the following response from a letter I had sent to DRF's Dave Tuley, I was once again convinced that he is one of the classier, upper echelon in the media mayhem of our current world. (read the post linked above and you will understand what the response is all about):
Dave:
I'll just reply here and you can disseminate it as you see fit.
First a clarification: DRF, the company that signs my pay check sponsors the NHC and is certainly supportive of it, but pretty much leaves the running of it to the NTRA, so you're not hurting my feelings or ruffling the feathers of anyone at DRF by airing
complaints. Feedback is great, and the goal of everyone is to make this
thing as fair and equitable as possible. That being said...
What I'm told is that the NTRA and America Tab felt it was necessary to
do that to prevent fraud of people entering under multiple
names/addresses/etc. and circumventing the maximum entries per person rule and also
to protect against chargebacks if people claim they didn't enter (which
would already be added to NHC purse and wouldn't look right if it was
announced 200 people enter and then 20 chargeback to their credit cards
and people wonder where the extra $2,000 went).
I understand your reservations about doing it, but if you register at
YouBet or TVG, you'd have to supply your SS# to verify your identity. I
don't how this would change. If you want to lodge a formal complaint
with the NTRA, this is from the nhcqualify.com page:
If I have general questions about the National Handicapping
Championship program, who can I contact?
The NTRA administers the NHC program. McKay Smith, director of product
development for the NTRA, runs the day-to-day operations. He may be
contacted through the NTRA switchboard at 1-800-RACECUP or 859.223.5444,
or via e-mail at msmith@ntra.com.
Ok, it's not the Magna Carta, but would Tom Brokaw or even Steven Crist take the time to give that response? We at the TBA have attempted to contact many a media folk over the past year and I will tell you first hand that this type of response is extremely uncommon--yet highly valued and appreciated by yours truly.
Thanks, Dave!!
Friday, March 24, 2006
Why do things HAVE to be so difficult?
Receiving THIS in my yahoo inbox this morning sent me on an unexpected, early, yet short-lived euphoria trip; well before my usual peak time of around 2pm.
Perusing this seemingly inclusive, attractive offer to qualify for the National Handicapping Championship was what I though initially a fantastic idea. IF you want to read a professional journalist’s take on this, go HERE --registration required. My man (and one of my favorite columnists) Dave Tuley breaks it down in a far more succinct manner than my verbose mind ever could. Keep in mind, the guys who sign his pay checks are the ones in charge of the contest.
So I spent some time reading the rules and format of this tournament and all was well until I clicked on "purchase entry". Keep in mind, there aren’t that many folks who fit in to the demo that the NTRA is looking for to buck up $100 at a time for a chance to qualify for the NHC in Vegas next January. But here's my gripe and where I decide to NOT participate no matter how much it hurts.
If you click on "purchase entry" you will no doubt notice that the DRF (as sponsor) has asked that we enter our SOCIAL SECURITY # in order to register. Are you kidding me? There may be some semi-good reason that the DRF/NHC wants my SS#, but I am certainly not entering it online!! I don't even do that for my bank or my credit card company!! In fact, I am already registered on drf.com to purchase PP's and I am not asked there.
So I ask, WHAT'S THE DEAL WITH THE SS#? I think it's presumptuous and unacceptable to ask for someone's SS# online unless you are the government or a substantial financial institute (and the latter better have a good reason).
With all of the boneheads running IT security and hackers working 24/7 there is no way you are getting my SS#. Dave T...Tell me what's up man? I know you visit Avg Horseplayer sometimes, give me some kind of decent answer to this nonsense. Should you not be able to give me a solid, legitimate answer then please pass along my sentiment and discomfort with such a seemingly inappropriate, unnecessary personal information request.
Maybe I am just paranoid, but at this point I have no desire to enter my SS# on a website. At this point, I'll just keep my $300 and tout elsewhere.
Perusing this seemingly inclusive, attractive offer to qualify for the National Handicapping Championship was what I though initially a fantastic idea. IF you want to read a professional journalist’s take on this, go HERE --registration required. My man (and one of my favorite columnists) Dave Tuley breaks it down in a far more succinct manner than my verbose mind ever could. Keep in mind, the guys who sign his pay checks are the ones in charge of the contest.
So I spent some time reading the rules and format of this tournament and all was well until I clicked on "purchase entry". Keep in mind, there aren’t that many folks who fit in to the demo that the NTRA is looking for to buck up $100 at a time for a chance to qualify for the NHC in Vegas next January. But here's my gripe and where I decide to NOT participate no matter how much it hurts.
If you click on "purchase entry" you will no doubt notice that the DRF (as sponsor) has asked that we enter our SOCIAL SECURITY # in order to register. Are you kidding me? There may be some semi-good reason that the DRF/NHC wants my SS#, but I am certainly not entering it online!! I don't even do that for my bank or my credit card company!! In fact, I am already registered on drf.com to purchase PP's and I am not asked there.
So I ask, WHAT'S THE DEAL WITH THE SS#? I think it's presumptuous and unacceptable to ask for someone's SS# online unless you are the government or a substantial financial institute (and the latter better have a good reason).
With all of the boneheads running IT security and hackers working 24/7 there is no way you are getting my SS#. Dave T...Tell me what's up man? I know you visit Avg Horseplayer sometimes, give me some kind of decent answer to this nonsense. Should you not be able to give me a solid, legitimate answer then please pass along my sentiment and discomfort with such a seemingly inappropriate, unnecessary personal information request.
Maybe I am just paranoid, but at this point I have no desire to enter my SS# on a website. At this point, I'll just keep my $300 and tout elsewhere.
Thursday, March 23, 2006
Monday, March 20, 2006
Even Track Announcers Get Typecast
Circling in and out of consciousness and unconsciousness; reality and fantasy; I somehow managed to stumble across one of my favorite time wasting (yet highly informative) websites: IMDB.com
To explain how my brain got me exactly where I am at this point is an exercise in futility. There is no way (~150-1) I could plot and pinpoint each thought that surfaced (only to quickly fade into a fresher version) over the past 10 minutes leading me stumble upon the fact that my new favorite announcer, Trevor Denman, has been unceremoniously typecast as what else. You guessed it.... a track announcer. BUT WAIT!!! Before you take my word for it, here are a few quick trivia questions to test your TV/TD knowledge:
Without going over (Price is right rules as always), how many films has TD been credited with? (If you get within two, well, good for you. Nice work)
Name ONE of two TV shows that TD has made an "appearance" on? (c'mon, it's easy with the hint) 1 million bonus points if you honestly guess both-if you DO get both, then I am thinking you need to get out a tad bit more.
"And away they go...."
Editor's Note: Through more mindless IMDB-ing, I just found out that Jay Cronely WROTE:
1) Quick Change-An amazingly funny, highly UNDERATED classic with Bill Murray, Geena Davis, Randy Quaid, et. al. One of my all-time favs
2) Funny Farm- Does this movie even need an explanation, much less my worthless endorsement?
3) Let It Ride- see #2 above
To explain how my brain got me exactly where I am at this point is an exercise in futility. There is no way (~150-1) I could plot and pinpoint each thought that surfaced (only to quickly fade into a fresher version) over the past 10 minutes leading me stumble upon the fact that my new favorite announcer, Trevor Denman, has been unceremoniously typecast as what else. You guessed it.... a track announcer. BUT WAIT!!! Before you take my word for it, here are a few quick trivia questions to test your TV/TD knowledge:
Without going over (Price is right rules as always), how many films has TD been credited with? (If you get within two, well, good for you. Nice work)
Name ONE of two TV shows that TD has made an "appearance" on? (c'mon, it's easy with the hint) 1 million bonus points if you honestly guess both-if you DO get both, then I am thinking you need to get out a tad bit more.
"And away they go...."
Editor's Note: Through more mindless IMDB-ing, I just found out that Jay Cronely WROTE:
1) Quick Change-An amazingly funny, highly UNDERATED classic with Bill Murray, Geena Davis, Randy Quaid, et. al. One of my all-time favs
2) Funny Farm- Does this movie even need an explanation, much less my worthless endorsement?
3) Let It Ride- see #2 above
Tough breaks in NCAA weekend action
Just to own up to a poor, poor touting performance.
I fully recognize my dismality at going a measely 1-3-not to mention my equally dismal overall bracket performance which has me deep in the basement of both pools I entered.
Oh well, there's always this week!!
I fully recognize my dismality at going a measely 1-3-not to mention my equally dismal overall bracket performance which has me deep in the basement of both pools I entered.
Oh well, there's always this week!!
Friday, March 17, 2006
What's in a name?
For those of you doubters out there, you MUST read this article.
Ok, so maybe there aren't so many doubters, but if you have visited this blog at least once (and are back again reading here) you will certainly appreciate its relevance.
Do you think if we dissected Jimmy the Greek's bones and analyzed his DNA, we could figure out the keys to successful gambling? Maybe I could earn a few million for sharing my gambling genes with willing "mares"?
I can tell you one thing, I come a lot cheaper than a lot of the "studs" out there!
Ok, so maybe there aren't so many doubters, but if you have visited this blog at least once (and are back again reading here) you will certainly appreciate its relevance.
Do you think if we dissected Jimmy the Greek's bones and analyzed his DNA, we could figure out the keys to successful gambling? Maybe I could earn a few million for sharing my gambling genes with willing "mares"?
I can tell you one thing, I come a lot cheaper than a lot of the "studs" out there!
Pretty sure what to think about this...
Does anyone else get as riled up over this as I do? Maybe I am a bit disgruntled, unhappy, detached, stifled and a bit lazy, but this truly pisses me off.
BTW, I NEVER click on NYPOST.com anymore. "Why? Because F*ck them, that's why."(Name the movie from which I lifted that uncreatvie little quote)
BTW, I NEVER click on NYPOST.com anymore. "Why? Because F*ck them, that's why."(Name the movie from which I lifted that uncreatvie little quote)
World Record KO
Since posting a personal record for earliest unofficial elimination from an NCAA Tournament Pool(s) with a horrific loss by a Final Four selection of Marquette, I am shifting gears to picking individual games.
Friday's Games:
Texas(-15) vs. Penn: In a recent conversation with an Ivy League Coach friend of mine, he was actually unable to express enough how overatted this Pennsylvania team is. Not even close to being on par with some highly formidable recent Penn/Princeton squads. (2 units-TEXAS)
California(+1.5) vs. N.C. State: No one believes the Pac-10 is an all around shitty confenrece this year more than I do, but there is a lot that can be said for the high caliber of roster players and coaches from the top two teams from this conference (Cal & UCLA). DO NOT sleep on Cal's amazing Leon Powe. The sophomore averaged 21 pts. and 10 boards a game. I love GETTING points in this one. (1 unit Cal.)
Georgetown(-4) vs. Northern Iowa: Puh-leez! The Big East? Georgetown running Princeton style offense with coach John Thompson III? I love this game. I would be shocked to see an upset here even though it is #7 vs. #10. (1 unit G'town)
Michigan St. (-4) vs. George Mason: My Hofstra Flying Dutchmen/Pride got screwed out of a bid coming out of the CAA. George Mason lost twice to the Dutchmen/Pride in the final two weeks of the season. Now they are supposed to stay within 4 points of one of the best coached teams in the nation? Experienced Big Ten talent, size and coaching should be plenty to cover the four points (1 unit MSU)
Enjoy today's games. As I told a friend earlier this morning: "I'm not rooting for anyone in particular. Just hoping for the largest amount of amazing games."
Friday's Games:
Texas(-15) vs. Penn: In a recent conversation with an Ivy League Coach friend of mine, he was actually unable to express enough how overatted this Pennsylvania team is. Not even close to being on par with some highly formidable recent Penn/Princeton squads. (2 units-TEXAS)
California(+1.5) vs. N.C. State: No one believes the Pac-10 is an all around shitty confenrece this year more than I do, but there is a lot that can be said for the high caliber of roster players and coaches from the top two teams from this conference (Cal & UCLA). DO NOT sleep on Cal's amazing Leon Powe. The sophomore averaged 21 pts. and 10 boards a game. I love GETTING points in this one. (1 unit Cal.)
Georgetown(-4) vs. Northern Iowa: Puh-leez! The Big East? Georgetown running Princeton style offense with coach John Thompson III? I love this game. I would be shocked to see an upset here even though it is #7 vs. #10. (1 unit G'town)
Michigan St. (-4) vs. George Mason: My Hofstra Flying Dutchmen/Pride got screwed out of a bid coming out of the CAA. George Mason lost twice to the Dutchmen/Pride in the final two weeks of the season. Now they are supposed to stay within 4 points of one of the best coached teams in the nation? Experienced Big Ten talent, size and coaching should be plenty to cover the four points (1 unit MSU)
Enjoy today's games. As I told a friend earlier this morning: "I'm not rooting for anyone in particular. Just hoping for the largest amount of amazing games."
Wednesday, March 15, 2006
Back from LaLa Land
I know, it's so cliche, to call LA "LaLa Land" but it really is. Just returned from my first ever trip to Southern California and you're g-dam right I went to Santa Anita.
Despite cool temps and some rain (it OPENED up just after the 7th race with hail and pouring rain for about 10 minutes) 10,000+ showed up for a day of Saturday racing that included the Santa Margarita Invitational Handicap.
I blew through a few bucks despite hitting a couple of races. My bigeest disapointment, but also my best learning experience of the day was the Santa Margarita and the last race of the day.
I failed to capitalize on an 8-1 horses for courses winner. Healthy Addiction ($19.40) was 4-4-0 in NINE tries at Santa Anita and wound up going gate to wire. DOH!!! Although, I did have him as a saver on a double ticket that didn't include 9th race 1st timer Gunslick who I liked due to his last workout being "Hg"- a friend had disuaded me and I failed to even invest $2 which would have returned $378 - DOH!!!
-In other news, if anyone is looking for a job, there seems to be one open here (thanks to Equidaily)- please feel free to use me as a reference.
-Yes, I know I am late with this, but I am a lazy, busy, somewhat disgruntled person theses days, but CONGRATS to "GrandStandGabe" who was recently named as River Downs' TA for the spring meet. Read all about it here. Feel free to send your best. I meant to post something last week, but got lazy and our good friends over at Oregon Racing beat me to the punch via DRF.
Good luck Jason!!
-And finally, for my Final Four picks, I have not gone out on too much of a limb but here ya go:
DUKE, UCONN, VILLANOVE, MARQUETTE. Yes, THREE Big East Teams. I am really sold on the fact that the Big East was the best conference by far this year.
Despite cool temps and some rain (it OPENED up just after the 7th race with hail and pouring rain for about 10 minutes) 10,000+ showed up for a day of Saturday racing that included the Santa Margarita Invitational Handicap.
I blew through a few bucks despite hitting a couple of races. My bigeest disapointment, but also my best learning experience of the day was the Santa Margarita and the last race of the day.
I failed to capitalize on an 8-1 horses for courses winner. Healthy Addiction ($19.40) was 4-4-0 in NINE tries at Santa Anita and wound up going gate to wire. DOH!!! Although, I did have him as a saver on a double ticket that didn't include 9th race 1st timer Gunslick who I liked due to his last workout being "Hg"- a friend had disuaded me and I failed to even invest $2 which would have returned $378 - DOH!!!
-In other news, if anyone is looking for a job, there seems to be one open here (thanks to Equidaily)- please feel free to use me as a reference.
-Yes, I know I am late with this, but I am a lazy, busy, somewhat disgruntled person theses days, but CONGRATS to "GrandStandGabe" who was recently named as River Downs' TA for the spring meet. Read all about it here. Feel free to send your best. I meant to post something last week, but got lazy and our good friends over at Oregon Racing beat me to the punch via DRF.
Good luck Jason!!
-And finally, for my Final Four picks, I have not gone out on too much of a limb but here ya go:
DUKE, UCONN, VILLANOVE, MARQUETTE. Yes, THREE Big East Teams. I am really sold on the fact that the Big East was the best conference by far this year.
Thursday, March 09, 2006
Off to see a man about a track...
All of us in the TBA have been slacking this week, myself included.
I have had things to write about, but nothing too earth shattering. I will let everyone know what I am on my way to Southern California (for the first time ever) and will be making my first trip to Santa Anita. The weather forecast is for rain Fri, Sat. AND Sun. Just my luck!!
Oh well, I am not deterred. I am just excited to experience a new track. I have seen SA on TV many times and look forward to basking in all that it is-rain or shine!
I hope to have some thoughts on the visit when I return Monday, but that could be sooner if our home for the next four days turns out to have a good internet connection.
I have had things to write about, but nothing too earth shattering. I will let everyone know what I am on my way to Southern California (for the first time ever) and will be making my first trip to Santa Anita. The weather forecast is for rain Fri, Sat. AND Sun. Just my luck!!
Oh well, I am not deterred. I am just excited to experience a new track. I have seen SA on TV many times and look forward to basking in all that it is-rain or shine!
I hope to have some thoughts on the visit when I return Monday, but that could be sooner if our home for the next four days turns out to have a good internet connection.
Saturday, March 04, 2006
Big Cap
What kind of a horse racing blogger would I be if I didn't make some public picks for today's big day at Santa Anita?
I think it's hard not to include High Limit in any selections, but I am going to go with Spellbinder here for the win.
I will also use a three horse box for exacta and tri combos using:
Spellbinder-High Limit-Wilko
Spellbinder-High Limit-Magnum
Good luck to all. Too bad today's raes aren't on cable for al to watch. Should be a good day!
I think it's hard not to include High Limit in any selections, but I am going to go with Spellbinder here for the win.
I will also use a three horse box for exacta and tri combos using:
Spellbinder-High Limit-Wilko
Spellbinder-High Limit-Magnum
Good luck to all. Too bad today's raes aren't on cable for al to watch. Should be a good day!
Thursday, March 02, 2006
Just a query
It’s 10:02 pm, I’m watching The World Poker Tour on the Travel Channel (“WPT Battle of Champions III) with Daniel Negraneau, Tuan Lee, Eli Elezar, and Alex something-or-other at the final table. I started thinking about some of the million dollar plus prize money awarded to the winners of these tournaments and a question arose in my brain.
Fresh from my first venture into on-line tax filing I started to wonder how these poker players, earning paychecks both big and small claim their winnings? With some huge Powerball drawings these past few weeks, I feel like we all understand the basic laws of lottery winnings and tax implications. Meaning, a $360 mil. lotto score is essentially only about $180 mil. or so.
My thought was officially this: Are the players who cash checks “contest winners” and therefore taxed at the 50% mark? Or are they independent contractors and use 1099? Or are they considered salaried?
I am curious about this and would love any readers from the poker who world might have some insight into this mota-induced query.
Fresh from my first venture into on-line tax filing I started to wonder how these poker players, earning paychecks both big and small claim their winnings? With some huge Powerball drawings these past few weeks, I feel like we all understand the basic laws of lottery winnings and tax implications. Meaning, a $360 mil. lotto score is essentially only about $180 mil. or so.
My thought was officially this: Are the players who cash checks “contest winners” and therefore taxed at the 50% mark? Or are they independent contractors and use 1099? Or are they considered salaried?
I am curious about this and would love any readers from the poker who world might have some insight into this mota-induced query.
Wednesday, March 01, 2006
Yes, I know this is a horse racing blog...
I do realize that this is a thoroughbred horse racing blog, or a thoroughbred horse blog, or just simply a horse blog, but sometimes it is necessary to address issues outside of the life at (and around) the track. This is what keeps our touting senses freshened. I liken it to "turning horses out on the farm". Bettors can build up fatigue just as much as any over-used immature 3-yr. old fresh off of the derby trail (see High Limit). So sometimes, we need to journey off of the thoroughbred path and into some fantasy worlds that freshen our minds for the touting tasks that lie ahead.
With that, please enjoy this review of the upcoming Sopranos season on HBO. Don't worry, nothing to important is revealed that might ruin for anyone.
New Season of Sopranos Reviewed
With that, please enjoy this review of the upcoming Sopranos season on HBO. Don't worry, nothing to important is revealed that might ruin for anyone.
Monday, February 27, 2006
Around the world in just a few minutes...
Here are a few stories to occupy your time. Some are better than others and some are a little old. I'm thinking if you can get one or two laughs or gasps, then I did my job for the day.
Smoke, Fight in a "War", but DON'T gamble
Kentucky Thoughts
Horses on Viagra
UPI Horse Roundup
Some folks just DON'T know when to hold em or fold em
The World is Coming to an End Pt.I
The World is Coming to an End Pt.II
The World is Coming to an End Pt.III
Friday, February 24, 2006
Lunchtime Celeb Sighting in P-Town...
Although not the biggest of deals, it was quite exhilarating to stumble into Wally Sczcerbiak of the Boston Celtics this afternoon on my way to lunch. It is quite rare to bump into many celebs in this town. Of course, people are stopping through here in tours and speaking engagements all the time, but they usually frequent places that I don’t usually go to. So what a surprise it was for me to hang a quick right out of my building and to come upon a surprisingly huge white man in a black sweat suit with red high-top Nike sneaks.
It’s amazing how many thoughts rush through your head in what feels like an eternity. IT was quite probably three or four seconds from the first time I noticed him until the time he actually passed me by, but the thoughts they were a ragin’! “What do I say? Is it him? Is it really him? What does his sweatshirt say? Oh, Celtics. But he is on Minnesota. No, wait he got traded. Yeah, that looks like him. Oh he’s on the phone”…poof gone!
Wally does have some more personal resonance with me as he is a Long Island native who is from the same hometown as a college teammate of mine. I also have several friends who had played against him in high school.
Anyway, it was nice to have that kind of unexpected rush in the middle of the day. It’s quite funny to think that when I lived in NY I don’t think I “spotted” one celebrity (although I worked amongst many). Not such a big deal, but one I needed to share.
No horses for me this weekend. Funds are too low, but I will of course be following all of the action. Just found out that I will be headed to LA on the weekend of March 9th. A plan to visit Santa Anita is already on the books. Whether we will visit the horsies on Saturday or Sunday is still up for discussion. It will be my first time for both.
In case you don’t know, here is a link to Wally’s bio/stats:
Wally’s World
It’s amazing how many thoughts rush through your head in what feels like an eternity. IT was quite probably three or four seconds from the first time I noticed him until the time he actually passed me by, but the thoughts they were a ragin’! “What do I say? Is it him? Is it really him? What does his sweatshirt say? Oh, Celtics. But he is on Minnesota. No, wait he got traded. Yeah, that looks like him. Oh he’s on the phone”…poof gone!
Wally does have some more personal resonance with me as he is a Long Island native who is from the same hometown as a college teammate of mine. I also have several friends who had played against him in high school.
Anyway, it was nice to have that kind of unexpected rush in the middle of the day. It’s quite funny to think that when I lived in NY I don’t think I “spotted” one celebrity (although I worked amongst many). Not such a big deal, but one I needed to share.
No horses for me this weekend. Funds are too low, but I will of course be following all of the action. Just found out that I will be headed to LA on the weekend of March 9th. A plan to visit Santa Anita is already on the books. Whether we will visit the horsies on Saturday or Sunday is still up for discussion. It will be my first time for both.
In case you don’t know, here is a link to Wally’s bio/stats:
Thursday, February 23, 2006
WE INTERRUPT THIS PICK-6 DEBACLE....
....for a special advertisement for an open position:
From DRF.com (classifieds)
National Manager - Professional sports-related labor organization
seeks high-energy, proactive individual to bring about positive change. Must have: proven fiscal and organizational discipline; ability to lead and inspire others; knowledge of political process at federal and state levels; strong communication, negotiation and mediation skills; ability to function at the highest levels with leaders of publicly traded organizations; and impeccable integrity. Extensive background check will be conducted. Salary commensurate with skills.
Send resume to:
Jockeys' Guild, Inc.,
5040 Old Taylor Mill Road, Box #7,
Taylor Mill, Kentucky 41015.
Alan? Brad? Jessica? Let's go, who's gonna throw their hat into the ring.....?
From DRF.com (classifieds)
National Manager - Professional sports-related labor organization
seeks high-energy, proactive individual to bring about positive change. Must have: proven fiscal and organizational discipline; ability to lead and inspire others; knowledge of political process at federal and state levels; strong communication, negotiation and mediation skills; ability to function at the highest levels with leaders of publicly traded organizations; and impeccable integrity. Extensive background check will be conducted. Salary commensurate with skills.
Send resume to:
Jockeys' Guild, Inc.,
5040 Old Taylor Mill Road, Box #7,
Taylor Mill, Kentucky 41015.
Alan? Brad? Jessica? Let's go, who's gonna throw their hat into the ring.....?
Pick-6 Update
UPDATE: I DON'T F-ING belive this!! Looks like two fools actually hit this thing!! $2 payouts were $352,167..congrats to whoevr had it. Looks like the Pick-6 pool hit around 1.4 million. Looks like my prediction was way off and folks really do love this bet.
Editor's Note: This is where I would like a little more in-depth reporting. Let's find out who exactly won this thing and what thier story is. Is it a group ticket? Or a professional gambler? I would like to see the horse media step-up a little bit and take a piece of reporting 101 form our own Brad and give us more than the standard, "The two tickets were purchased via through OTB hubs in Maine and South Dakota. Blah, blah. In my best Dennis Hopper Easy Rider imitation...."Give us some story line maaaan"
UPDATE: (4:15pm pst)-Looks like another favorite bites the dust... (5.90-1) Ameridar outlasts the field. NO WAY anyone has this ticket
(4:06pm pst) - Yes, you all probably know there is a nice sized carryover here on the left coast...
However, what you probably didn't realize was that after only the first three legs of today's card there have been two pretty major upsets.....
3rd Race: Favorite (2.10-1) Valenzuela up.
4th Race: 10 horse field, third-highest odds on the board (22.90-1) takes this 6.5 furlong claimer. Favorite under Gomez finished 3rd nearly 2 back of winner ridden by super-hot apprentice Ochoa
5th Race: 9 horse field. Second highest odds on the board (18.10-1) Proud Suzett wins going away by 4. Afore mentione "super-hot" Gomez rides favorite "2nd Best"
Not sure if everyone involved is already knocked out, but I would not be surprised if there were a minimal number of tickets still alive.
I can already hear the Racing Forms' flying off the shelves.
Prediction: carryover for tomorrow will be.....$635,236. Please feel free to chime in with your guess. We'll play Price is Right rules, closest without going over......
Editor's Note: This is where I would like a little more in-depth reporting. Let's find out who exactly won this thing and what thier story is. Is it a group ticket? Or a professional gambler? I would like to see the horse media step-up a little bit and take a piece of reporting 101 form our own Brad and give us more than the standard, "The two tickets were purchased via through OTB hubs in Maine and South Dakota. Blah, blah. In my best Dennis Hopper Easy Rider imitation...."Give us some story line maaaan"
UPDATE: (4:15pm pst)-Looks like another favorite bites the dust... (5.90-1) Ameridar outlasts the field. NO WAY anyone has this ticket
(4:06pm pst) - Yes, you all probably know there is a nice sized carryover here on the left coast...
However, what you probably didn't realize was that after only the first three legs of today's card there have been two pretty major upsets.....
3rd Race: Favorite (2.10-1) Valenzuela up.
4th Race: 10 horse field, third-highest odds on the board (22.90-1) takes this 6.5 furlong claimer. Favorite under Gomez finished 3rd nearly 2 back of winner ridden by super-hot apprentice Ochoa
5th Race: 9 horse field. Second highest odds on the board (18.10-1) Proud Suzett wins going away by 4. Afore mentione "super-hot" Gomez rides favorite "2nd Best"
Not sure if everyone involved is already knocked out, but I would not be surprised if there were a minimal number of tickets still alive.
I can already hear the Racing Forms' flying off the shelves.
Prediction: carryover for tomorrow will be.....$635,236. Please feel free to chime in with your guess. We'll play Price is Right rules, closest without going over......
Friday, February 17, 2006
Sunday, February 12, 2006
Hits and misses..
Our fearless VP went hunting for Quail, and came back with a human hit.
Not bad. I on the other hand, made it to Portland Meadows for the first time in a while, and tried to hit a few winners....
I was actually able to leave the house on the most beautiful day of the week. While my family and brethren were suffocating under multiple feets of snow in the northeast, we in P-town were soaking in a calm, sunny Sunday.
I made my way up to the second floor clubhouse where I plopped down my form and began looking simultaneously at four different tracks-Golden Gate, Santa Anita, Oaklawn and Portland Meadows. Luckily for me, the first race I encountered at PM was for the QH's, so that gave me some free time to get myself settled and acquainted with where every track was on the card and on the TV.
The highlight of my touting day came via the 8th at Oaklawn, a 32K MSW. Usually I don't have much luck with MSW's, but this one I felt I had it nailed all over.
The end result was a win ticket, plus I had the exacta with either second place horse-in this case it was a photo finish and though I would have preferred 14.60-1 Altimeter, 8.60-1 Southern Sass. No complaining. Two hours after first entering lovely PM, I walked out up a few dollars which made an already beautiful, enjoyable day that much more great!
As far as the olympics are concerned....
I don't care too much that Michelle Kwan has withdrawn. What's more disapointing is Darren Rahves' poor showing in the downhil today. Would have been nice for the pre-race favorite (American) to give the world a solid showing.
Oh well, maybe I can get Janet Jones to give me a tip on the upcoming Olympic hockey tournament. Better yet, I've seen how much she's lost with the NJ-Philly BM's and I'll take my chances without her.
Not bad. I on the other hand, made it to Portland Meadows for the first time in a while, and tried to hit a few winners....
I was actually able to leave the house on the most beautiful day of the week. While my family and brethren were suffocating under multiple feets of snow in the northeast, we in P-town were soaking in a calm, sunny Sunday.
I made my way up to the second floor clubhouse where I plopped down my form and began looking simultaneously at four different tracks-Golden Gate, Santa Anita, Oaklawn and Portland Meadows. Luckily for me, the first race I encountered at PM was for the QH's, so that gave me some free time to get myself settled and acquainted with where every track was on the card and on the TV.
The highlight of my touting day came via the 8th at Oaklawn, a 32K MSW. Usually I don't have much luck with MSW's, but this one I felt I had it nailed all over.
The end result was a win ticket, plus I had the exacta with either second place horse-in this case it was a photo finish and though I would have preferred 14.60-1 Altimeter, 8.60-1 Southern Sass. No complaining. Two hours after first entering lovely PM, I walked out up a few dollars which made an already beautiful, enjoyable day that much more great!
As far as the olympics are concerned....
I don't care too much that Michelle Kwan has withdrawn. What's more disapointing is Darren Rahves' poor showing in the downhil today. Would have been nice for the pre-race favorite (American) to give the world a solid showing.
Oh well, maybe I can get Janet Jones to give me a tip on the upcoming Olympic hockey tournament. Better yet, I've seen how much she's lost with the NJ-Philly BM's and I'll take my chances without her.
Saturday, February 11, 2006
Pissed at Oaklawn..another example of racings shortcomings
So I have been filling my day (a dry, sunny, brisk winter Portland day) doing some chores and e-filing my taxes. Everything was "hunky-dory". I had read earlier a post over at LATG, and Alan talking about Rockport Harbor and the Essex.
Alan hit it right on the head by call RH "Rocky". This is all a fine example of how the internet is helping to expand horse racings reach. Alan completely stoked my flame of interest with his post, therefore raising interest for the sport in me (not too mention how many others?)
So I finish my taxes and go to Oaklawn's site where they offer:1) Live Audio and 2)A still webcam that refreshes every 10 seconds.
Being used to NYRA's audio cast, I don't mind much listening to race calls, understanding that there ae probably some heavily worded contracts that prohibit certain tracks to broadcast ter races live on the web.
However, as the post parade began, I realize that for some reason the live audio feature was not working, there is NO webcast, AND Oaklawn.com does not even show the live tote!!
Here's what I decided to do next:
(this letter was submitted to Oaklawn’s feedback dept. on their site. Who knows if anyone will read it, or even care, but I needed to do it).
To whom this may concern:
It is unbelievable to me how non-interactive, non-inclusive your website is.
Here I am in Portland, OR extremely interested in your feature race and not only does your live audio feature NOT work, but you do not even supply current live tote updates. So even if I planned on betting a specific horse, I wouldn't even know what he/she is going off at-thusly making it rather difficult for me to make a bet (thusly leading to lack of handle for you).
Why would your website make it more difficult for me to enjoy the races you put on?
I understand you may have some contract requirements regarding live video of the races (although some tracks do provide free, live coverage on their sites) but to not even provide a decent audio link? Or tote updates? What the heck am I going to do with still shots from a webcam that refreshes every 10 seconds?
This is one of the major reasons why horse racing is losing its foot hold, prominence and profitability with Americans.
I am fairly internet savvy and am also a member of the Thoroughbred Bloggers Alliance. If someone like me can't obtain easy access to your product on-line, then it is fair to say your are losing out on HUGE potential audience that has money to spend.
Shame on you.
Feel free to check out the only future that horse racing has on-line here:
http://thoroughbredbloggersalliance.com/
and here:
http://avghorseplayer.blogspot.com/
I feel a little bit better.
Alan hit it right on the head by call RH "Rocky". This is all a fine example of how the internet is helping to expand horse racings reach. Alan completely stoked my flame of interest with his post, therefore raising interest for the sport in me (not too mention how many others?)
So I finish my taxes and go to Oaklawn's site where they offer:1) Live Audio and 2)A still webcam that refreshes every 10 seconds.
Being used to NYRA's audio cast, I don't mind much listening to race calls, understanding that there ae probably some heavily worded contracts that prohibit certain tracks to broadcast ter races live on the web.
However, as the post parade began, I realize that for some reason the live audio feature was not working, there is NO webcast, AND Oaklawn.com does not even show the live tote!!
Here's what I decided to do next:
(this letter was submitted to Oaklawn’s feedback dept. on their site. Who knows if anyone will read it, or even care, but I needed to do it).
To whom this may concern:
It is unbelievable to me how non-interactive, non-inclusive your website is.
Here I am in Portland, OR extremely interested in your feature race and not only does your live audio feature NOT work, but you do not even supply current live tote updates. So even if I planned on betting a specific horse, I wouldn't even know what he/she is going off at-thusly making it rather difficult for me to make a bet (thusly leading to lack of handle for you).
Why would your website make it more difficult for me to enjoy the races you put on?
I understand you may have some contract requirements regarding live video of the races (although some tracks do provide free, live coverage on their sites) but to not even provide a decent audio link? Or tote updates? What the heck am I going to do with still shots from a webcam that refreshes every 10 seconds?
This is one of the major reasons why horse racing is losing its foot hold, prominence and profitability with Americans.
I am fairly internet savvy and am also a member of the Thoroughbred Bloggers Alliance. If someone like me can't obtain easy access to your product on-line, then it is fair to say your are losing out on HUGE potential audience that has money to spend.
Shame on you.
Feel free to check out the only future that horse racing has on-line here:
http://thoroughbredbloggersalliance.com/
and here:
http://avghorseplayer.blogspot.com/
I feel a little bit better.
Tuesday, February 07, 2006
What a day...
57 degrees at 3:47 pst and absolutely gorgeous here in Portland.
What a day....
And this story just continues to get better.....
NHL and NFL...Perfect Together(for BM's)
What a day....
And this story just continues to get better.....
Monday, February 06, 2006
Electric Gatorade and Lack of a Star Ruin My Monday
Well, it’s taken me until 5:20 pm PST to shake off the hangover and the sense of loss both as a result of yesterday’s “Big Game.” Not much to say about it all, I mean everyone and their mama has covered the myriad of angles depicting four quarters of an absolutely horrifying Super Bowl. I think I just kept consuming more, faster as time ticked away, hoping somehow that my level of inebriation might result in one, JUST ONE Seahawk stepping up to the championship caliber of play needed to call yourself a Super Bowl Champion. No one did. Thusly, there will be a parade in the Steel City tomorrow at 11am, and not in the city 180 miles to the north.
And not too much to say about Stevie WonderGriffin getting hurt and withdrawing from the Derby. It is what it is. Fragile, expensive horses. I just love when things like jinx’s have shelf lives of multiple-years, it just makes things more interesting.
A VERY nice sized Pick-6 carryover at Santa Anita for Wednesday’s card. I took a look at some of the results from yesterday’s card and there were some nice sized winners (and placers). Although the earlier races featuring a 129-1 shot (paid $108 to place) weren’t part of the Pick-6, the day produced some nice payouts.
Glad to see Oregon Racing.com back up and running. Evil hackers (the REAL evil-doers Georgie Boy) shut down Jolene and Michael for a few days, but looks like they’ve got everything up and running.
Just wanted to get those tidbits off my chest….
And not too much to say about Stevie WonderGriffin getting hurt and withdrawing from the Derby. It is what it is. Fragile, expensive horses. I just love when things like jinx’s have shelf lives of multiple-years, it just makes things more interesting.
A VERY nice sized Pick-6 carryover at Santa Anita for Wednesday’s card. I took a look at some of the results from yesterday’s card and there were some nice sized winners (and placers). Although the earlier races featuring a 129-1 shot (paid $108 to place) weren’t part of the Pick-6, the day produced some nice payouts.
Glad to see Oregon Racing.com back up and running. Evil hackers (the REAL evil-doers Georgie Boy) shut down Jolene and Michael for a few days, but looks like they’ve got everything up and running.
Just wanted to get those tidbits off my chest….
Saturday, February 04, 2006
Life Imitates Horse
Not sure if there is something wrong with Blogger tonight, but I couldn't log on for a pretty long time here tonight. Nonetheless, here I am.
With SB XL looming less than 24 hrs. away, I recognize that some of my most recent posts have been stepping away from the world (sport/game) of horseracing.
Well, I'm not sure if you have come across this story yet, (it's been on a lot of sports news websites) but take a look and tell me how this may relate to the current state of thoroughbred horseracing. It's amazing how life continues to imitate.....well, er...life!!
Life Imitates Horse
With SB XL looming less than 24 hrs. away, I recognize that some of my most recent posts have been stepping away from the world (sport/game) of horseracing.
Well, I'm not sure if you have come across this story yet, (it's been on a lot of sports news websites) but take a look and tell me how this may relate to the current state of thoroughbred horseracing. It's amazing how life continues to imitate.....well, er...life!!
Friday, February 03, 2006
The Big XL
I’ve been chomping at the bit all day to finally grab a few minutes to post. There are a number of interesting, important topics that I really want to touch on, but those will have to wait (they should still be timely by the time I get a few minutes).
#1 on my list though, is to make my official XL prediction. I just love the way that looks and sounds: SB XL-The young, supposedly overrated, expansion franchise in its first SB appearance, vs. the storied, mid-west, nation loving Steelers.
Blah, blah, blah I’ve only read about 1/3 of the stories emanating out of Detroit over the past week. It is just so annoying to me to have to try and live through two weeks of inane babble and artificial build-up. Even Bill Simmons’ column today failed to elicit my usual giddiness. His column did have some humorous bright spots, but having the 5 top storylines that weren’t covered, just bored me to tears. The lone bright spot was this line, where Simmons is talking about Shaun Alexander’s free agent opportunities:
"So why would Alexander possibly want to leave a very good team with a great offensive line for a shaky team with a shaky offensive line? Sure, he makes extra money in the short term, but what happens 10 months from now, when he's averaging 3.3 yards per carry, fighting off the aftereffects of 20 gang-tackles a game, and dealing with the collective animosity of 25,000 pissed-off fantasy owners? He's going to be using that extra $2 million for Vicodin, booze and psychiatric care. That's what happens. Watching Alexander this week, I feel like I'm watching David Caruso during those last few episodes before he left "NYPD Blue" to make "Jade." I hope he reconsiders."
Any Caruso "post-NYPD Blue" references make my day!!
So, onto the game: Prediction: Tails-Tails is the even money favorite (vs. –105 for heads).
OTHER prediction: Seattle 27 Pittsburgh 21- My money says it’s so. Yes, I do feel a little bias going on in my own pick. I have been more and more swayed that the Steelers are by far the better team by reading all of the hype promoted by East Coast media.
I certainly give major credence to Pitt’s unbelievable run on the road vs. the AFC’s best to get here. I also do have some feeling that Washington and Carolina were not top-notch opponents. Furthering my diminishing confidence in the Seahawks as straight-up winners is this stat: (courtesy of Simmons): The NFC stunk all season. Just look at the interconference matchups: The six AFC playoff teams went 20-4 against the NFC; the six NFC playoff teams went 9-11 against the AFC
Nonetheless, I am sticking with the Seahawks to show the rest of the country that they are for real. I am thinking it is going to be an amazing game, exciting and throughly entertaining-proving all cureent naysayers completely wrong.
I will be at a house party with a screen larger than 55” (with a free keg provided by the local beer distirbutor). Come and get me NFL.
For a professional writer’s take, someone who has put this whole game into what I feel is a pretty accurate summation, (which I JUST read about 9/10 of the way through this post) check out Dave Tuley’s column from todays form:
A Real Writer Breaks Down XL
I hope everyone enjoys The Donn, The Strub, and Sunday’s Fiesta. For once, I may just enjoy the pregame musical festivities. How can you not LOVE Stevie?
#1 on my list though, is to make my official XL prediction. I just love the way that looks and sounds: SB XL-The young, supposedly overrated, expansion franchise in its first SB appearance, vs. the storied, mid-west, nation loving Steelers.
Blah, blah, blah I’ve only read about 1/3 of the stories emanating out of Detroit over the past week. It is just so annoying to me to have to try and live through two weeks of inane babble and artificial build-up. Even Bill Simmons’ column today failed to elicit my usual giddiness. His column did have some humorous bright spots, but having the 5 top storylines that weren’t covered, just bored me to tears. The lone bright spot was this line, where Simmons is talking about Shaun Alexander’s free agent opportunities:
"So why would Alexander possibly want to leave a very good team with a great offensive line for a shaky team with a shaky offensive line? Sure, he makes extra money in the short term, but what happens 10 months from now, when he's averaging 3.3 yards per carry, fighting off the aftereffects of 20 gang-tackles a game, and dealing with the collective animosity of 25,000 pissed-off fantasy owners? He's going to be using that extra $2 million for Vicodin, booze and psychiatric care. That's what happens. Watching Alexander this week, I feel like I'm watching David Caruso during those last few episodes before he left "NYPD Blue" to make "Jade." I hope he reconsiders."
Any Caruso "post-NYPD Blue" references make my day!!
So, onto the game: Prediction: Tails-Tails is the even money favorite (vs. –105 for heads).
OTHER prediction: Seattle 27 Pittsburgh 21- My money says it’s so. Yes, I do feel a little bias going on in my own pick. I have been more and more swayed that the Steelers are by far the better team by reading all of the hype promoted by East Coast media.
I certainly give major credence to Pitt’s unbelievable run on the road vs. the AFC’s best to get here. I also do have some feeling that Washington and Carolina were not top-notch opponents. Furthering my diminishing confidence in the Seahawks as straight-up winners is this stat: (courtesy of Simmons): The NFC stunk all season. Just look at the interconference matchups: The six AFC playoff teams went 20-4 against the NFC; the six NFC playoff teams went 9-11 against the AFC
Nonetheless, I am sticking with the Seahawks to show the rest of the country that they are for real. I am thinking it is going to be an amazing game, exciting and throughly entertaining-proving all cureent naysayers completely wrong.
I will be at a house party with a screen larger than 55” (with a free keg provided by the local beer distirbutor). Come and get me NFL.
For a professional writer’s take, someone who has put this whole game into what I feel is a pretty accurate summation, (which I JUST read about 9/10 of the way through this post) check out Dave Tuley’s column from todays form:
I hope everyone enjoys The Donn, The Strub, and Sunday’s Fiesta. For once, I may just enjoy the pregame musical festivities. How can you not LOVE Stevie?
Wednesday, February 01, 2006
Fairgrounds...Ready?
I will be here... Jazz Fest is on
for the first weekend in May. Yes, your Avg Horseplayer will be enjoying a nice little bachelor party the second weekend of Jazz Fest-Derby Weekend!!
I was thinking the other day- Is it going to be possible to be enjoying the sites and sounds of the some of the greatest jazz musicians and festival atmosphere one-minute, then just walk a few hundred yards inside the Fairgrounds (Clubhouse Level) and watch the greatest 2 minutes in sports?
Some friends of mine are nervous about the conditions of New Orleans and if heading down south is such a god idea at this point. I just keep telling them, we will see how Mardi Gras goes. That will be that city's first big test-welcoming thousands and thousands of revelers.
I for one, don't care. It makes me feel good to feel like I am helping to support the rebuilding of the community down there.
The last time I was down at Jazz Fest in 2004, I never did make it to the actual Fairgrounds. I am excited to experience that part of the celebration AND hopefully place a small wager and watch the Derby.
for the first weekend in May. Yes, your Avg Horseplayer will be enjoying a nice little bachelor party the second weekend of Jazz Fest-Derby Weekend!!
I was thinking the other day- Is it going to be possible to be enjoying the sites and sounds of the some of the greatest jazz musicians and festival atmosphere one-minute, then just walk a few hundred yards inside the Fairgrounds (Clubhouse Level) and watch the greatest 2 minutes in sports?
Some friends of mine are nervous about the conditions of New Orleans and if heading down south is such a god idea at this point. I just keep telling them, we will see how Mardi Gras goes. That will be that city's first big test-welcoming thousands and thousands of revelers.
I for one, don't care. It makes me feel good to feel like I am helping to support the rebuilding of the community down there.
The last time I was down at Jazz Fest in 2004, I never did make it to the actual Fairgrounds. I am excited to experience that part of the celebration AND hopefully place a small wager and watch the Derby.
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