Home of the Arlington Million
It's great to be back here in Chicago! From all accounts, it was a cold and snowy winter here in the Midwest. It was much warmer down in New Orleans where we just wrapped a solid 135th racing season at the Fair Grounds Race Course and Slots! And soon will be "Away and Running at Arlington" on Friday, May 2, 2008.
The unanimous Horse of the Meeting was Winchell Thoroughbred's Pyro, trained by Steve Asmussen (Leading FG Trainer for the Seventh time), who followed up his dramatic win in the Risen Star Stakes with a win in the Louisiana Derby (Grade II). Of course, this is the time of the year when we all get "Derby Fever" so there will be a lot of Pyro-maniacs pulling for him come the first Saturday in May. I'm still waiting for my PYRO pin! That race in the Risen Star to me was amazing. I figured he'd be coming at some point at the Quarter pole, but when I didn't see him I was shocked. And suddenly, Shaun Bridgmohan, switched him out in the final furlong and WOW. What a win!
There were several very nice horses to come out of the Fair Grounds meeting to watch in the weeks and months ahead. The Fair Grounds Oaks winner Proud Spell has been nominated to the Triple Crown. We wish trainer Larry Jones and her connections success in future races! The dominance of Woodbine-based horses also came to light during the New Orleans season. A very talented Danceoftherealm, trainer by Malcolm Pierce, showed a great prowess for the Stall-Wilson turf course and was admirably partnered with Miguel Mena, who had a very successful Fair Grounds meet. Others horses I'll be watching for include Pin Oak Stable's Much Obliged, Mineshaft winner Grasshopper, Sweepstake, an Irish bred filly, who had stamina in abundance in her last race for David Carroll and Glen Hill Farm's homebred Closeout, a Repriced filly, who won her two turn debut on the turf from twelve to first! I'm sure you all have a few of your favourites too!
But for now, I can set me sights on the fast approaching opening day at Arlington Park on Friday, May 2. Hope you enjoy reading our blogs and the new website. I'll be back to write more soon, so stay tuned!
Welcome Back John
John G Dooley--The voice of Arlington Park.
Your race calls are one of a kind. Whether it's a bunch of state claimers, or the Arlington Million, you give the fans their money's worth in every race call.