Q:
How do you decide which horses will work in company?
Meredith Ramirez
Sacramento, California
A:There are several factors to consider: age, fitness, and length of stride. You want the horses to be compatible as workmates and you do not want one horse more stressed than the other. Consider it like dancing and both horses are “in-step” when working.
Expert: John Shirreffs
Q:
What are the indicators or signs that let you know a horse is 100% ready to race for the first time?
Lisa Myers
Hopkins, Minnesota
A: When a horse has trained hard enough to run and off of that training he shows you he wants to do more, this is a good sign. The feed tub is also a great indicator as to how the horse is handling and internalizing his work load. When the feed tub is “licked clean” each morning, a horse is ready to run.
Expert: John Shirreffs
Q:
Has Coz had the pleasure of drinking Guinness? Does he like certain foods?
Judy Gadwood
Burbank, CA
A: Coz is not “old” enough yet for beer (ha-ha). He has fresh carrot juice three to four times a week. John makes this for Coz at the barn and he drinks it out of a large salad bowl (this was one of Giacomo’s favorites as well). Coz also enjoys the Horse Apple Cookies that Mrs. Moss sends to the barn for him and his pals.
Expert: Dottie Ingordo-Shirreffs
Our Experts
Trainer
John Shirreffs has been around horses all of his life and has always felt it was important to help a horse become significant, to make history. Zenyatta’s Breeders Cup wins helped his dreams come true. Read John’s complete bio.
Racing Manager
As the Moss’ Racing Manager for the last 29 years, Dottie has actively been a part of each Moss horse’s life. It’s a family affair, as her husband John trains many of the horses that she manages. Read Dottie’s complete bio.
sheena.davies(wales)
Dear Max.I didn’t know Creator was a son of the mighty Mill Reef.Oh how I remember 1971!Mullins made a great decision to send Gitane Du Berlais to France today and back hurdling.She may go to Fairyhouse or Punchestown next.Irish Saint whom she beat so emphatically went on to win at Kempton last month.There was a good piece about Mullins and his favourites for the 1st day of the festival on the racing programme Saturday.The Fly looks wonderful still biting!Sheena
Max
Yes, C was a very impressive looking chestnut. He’s actually the last stakes winning son of Mill Reef. C was born in the UK but came home to the U.S., the birthplace of his sire. Sounds like they loved him at Old Friend’s. RIP Creator.
Gitane kicked some butt in France today.
Looks like Mullins has given The Fly a mohawk trim to his mane for Cheltenham. Bite on, Fly. And let it rain!
Ann NC
That is a fierce look. Not all can own that look. The Fly will look great!
Marilu Villanueva
Thanks for sharing these Q & A with us. It’s wonderful to hear what John and Dottie had to say. We miss Zenyatta, all the horses, Barn 55, and the wonderful things John and Dottie shared with us when they were still at Hollywood Park. It was exciting to visit the Barn because they were always gracious. Wonderful memories we keep forever.
Max
The Big Beast just won his return race at Oaklawn. Beastie, you are a beast! Rock on, Beastie.
Janet Newman
He liked the off track, just skipped over the surface.
Towered over the other horses in the field.
shirleeinindy
Congrats Beastie. I am going to find a video of the race to watch.
Max, you sure know how to pick ‘um!
Max
An 18 hand sprinter who is also an escape artist! I am very happy for his pony. Going to the Winner’s Circle must make him the envy of all of the other ponies. Keep kicking butt, Beastie.
shirleeinindy
Found the video. You were right. He did it with ease. Hope he has good connections. I have read that Tony Dutrow is a very decent person unlike his bad brother.
Max
Tony Dutrow was trained by Bobby Frankel. That says it all.
Bluegrass Girl
Mary Rampellini Daily Racing Form Sunday March 1 2015
The Big Beast wins first start since King’s Bishop
The Big Beast wins comeback at 3-5 while cornering six furlongs on good track in 1:10.68.
The BIg Beast PHOTO
https://twitter.com/DRFRampellini/status/572168944812990464/photo/1
Judy Berube From Rhode Island
Dear BGG:
Thank you for sharing this. Such a handsome boy. Love and Hugs, JB
Ann NC
Congrats to Beastie Boy and his connections.
He is so handsome.
Linda in NJ
Hello John and Dottie!!!!
It is so nice to hear from the both of you again! Thank you for your comments to these really great questions. Needless to say, we know that Coz is in really great hands and we look forward to the day he makes his first debut.
Also, congratulations to The Big Beast and his connections on today’s win.
Love,
Linda
Linda in NJ
Oh, and it’s great to see a picture of Sophie too!
Love to all!
Judy Berube From Rhode Island
Dear Linda:
Yes, Sophie is such a cutie. Love and Hugs, JB
shirleeinindy
I love the way Coz and John are looking at each other. Coz has nothing but love and trust in his eyes as does John.
Max
Coz. He was such a lovely foal, and now he’s a handsome colt. So like his momma with that noble head.
Judy Berube From Rhode Island
Dear Max:
He is, indeed, noble looking like his Mama. Love and Hugs, JB
sheena.davies(wales)
Dear Max.Congratulations to the Beast!We’ve been promised wintry showers this week and cold but spring is on the horizon temps may soon rise!Ready for the return of Monty and Glesni.Sheena.
Max
The Beast has to wear a draft horse sized halter. It looks like it’s somewhat similar to the color of Moosie’s purple outfit. Unlike Dan, the Beast wears plaid.
Ann NC
Thanks Team Z, John and Dottie for this great question and answer blog.
You folks are very special.
Study hard, Coz.
carol in arkansas
@Max…our Beast is most impressive. ….40 degrees and light misty rain…did not bother him at all….
Max
Loved this guy since I first saw him last summer in NY. Glad that you got the chance to watch him too. Good luck with the surgery. Hope that all goes well.
shirleeinindy
Max,
Isn’t it funny how we become attached to a horse after just seeing him once? You and Beastie sound like Lea and me. I saw him in the walk over at Churchill Downs almost 2 years ago. He was so alert and interested in all going on around him plus he was a copper penny chestnut. He, of course, won the race and he got me!
Max
Same thing for me with Zenyatta. I was totally in awe of her from first sight. Still am. Unbelievable.
Lea is definitely a very handsome horse. Can see how he can capture hearts and imagination. I’m always impressed by the chestnuts.
AmyK
Horse Racing Nation will have a video on Coz tomorrow, Monday March 2. Can’t wait to see more of him, but happy John takes his time and waits until he’s ready. Have a great week everyone – it’s a great way to start!
Judy Berube From Rhode Island
Dear AmyK:
Thanks for the heads up on the new video of COZ. Looking forward to seeing it. Love and Hugs, JB
Karen R.
Amy, I believe that’s an old video of Coz. I thought it was familiar and when I watched the short video you posted the date on it is June 2014. Some folks may have missed it though and it’s always nice to see Coz at any age.
AmyK
Link was posted on Chrome’s current work – Ah well, always great to see Coz!
AmyK
Here’s a link to a short video clip by Mat Shifman:
https://www.facebook.com/video.php?v=10152258458926156
Judy Berube From Rhode Island
Dear AmyK:
Thanks. Did you see him look right at the camera? He knows he’s special. So beautiful. Love and Hugs, JB
Max
Very good. Thanks for posting this video.
sheena.davies(wales)
Dear Judy.Hope all is well.Goodnight God bless you LM PC HT Cap Hercules Frank Boo and all the Sweeties.Love and hugs SheenaX
Judy Berube From Rhode Island
Dear Sheena:
We’re all doing well; thanks for asking and thank you for sending me Sparkle and Speedy’s Blogs. Love and Hugs, JB, LM, PC, HT, Cap, Herc, Frank, Boo and all the Sweeties
Bluegrass Girl
BH Race Results on Sunday March 1 2015 RACE REPLAY VIDEO
The Big Beast (Yes It’s True – V V S Flawless) wins an allowance at Oaklawn Park
http://www.bloodhorse.com/horse-racing/race/USA/OP/2015/3/1/8/race-8-alw-at-op-on-3-1-15
Judy Berube From Rhode Island
Dear BGG, Max and Z Fans:
Wow, what a comeback by Beastie. Even the off track didn’t phase him. Love this boy. Way to go TBB; congrats. Great ride by Ricardo Santana, Jr. too. Love and Hugs, JB
Max
The Beast is all business when it comes to racing. He’s so tall that a muddy track doesn’t bother him. It’s too far away. At the end of the race, he was looking for his pony. Congrats, Beastie.
Judy Berube From Rhode Island
Dear Max:
Beast looked like he could go around again. Stay safe and healthy beautiful boy. Love and Hugs, JB
shirleeinindy
Max,
Agree with Judy. Looks like a little more distance would not bother him. With those big long legs just think how he can eat up the ground.
Max
JudyB and shirlee. The moment that I saw The Beastie in June of last year I knew that he was special. To be a winning sprinter at 18 hands is totally amazing. He could probably do 2 miles without breaking a sweat. With those legs, he could be a jumper. That last race was won on a hand ride. The Beast just rolled on like a freight train. Look out! I’m really happy for The Beast that he got $60K in winnings from the race. He needs it for his feed bills.
Judy Berube From Rhode Island
Dear Max and Shirlee:
Max, I agree with Shirlee, you have a knack, like our Peggy, for picking winners. Beast is really special. Love and Hugs, JB
Judy Berube From Rhode Island
Dear Abigail:
Just watched the wonderful video you posted of magnificent Annie Power and Ruby Walsh on the previous Blog page. Looking forward to the The Fly on the Vault. Love and Hugs, JB
Judy Berube From Rhode Island
Dear Shirlee:
An article on PM’s first work back from layoff. Love and Hugs, JB
http://www.bloodhorse.com/horse-racing/articles/90389/palace-malice-in-first-work-back-for-pletcher
shirleeinindy
Judy,
Thanks. Hope he does well and is completely healed. Don’t think Cot would let him run if he weren’t.
Judy Berube From Rhode Island
Dear Shirlee:
Me too. Love and Hugs, JB
Judy Berube From Rhode Island
Dear Z, COZ, ZI, V and Montey:
Goodnight. Stay comfy and cozy. Love You. Hugs, JB
Z Princess, Dubai, will always love you.
Max
How’s Frank doing?
Judy Berube From Rhode Island
Dear Max:
Saw Frankie late Friday afternoon when I went to visit Charlie. He is fine and thriving. I took these photos of Frank, the Minis and Bluebelle, the calf all together in there pen for the night. There’s six Minis, Frank and Bluebelle. Love and Hugs, JB
http://www.dropshots.com/littlebigred/date/2015-02-27/16:52:33 Frank and Bluebelle are side by side behind two of the Minis.
http://www.dropshots.com/littlebigred/date/2015-02-27/16:52:53 Here’s a close up of Frank and Bluebelle
Max
That’s fabulous. Frank is king of that farm.
Judy Berube From Rhode Island
Dear Max:
Frank seems to have bonded especially with Bluebell. They’re usually side by side. Love and Hugs, JB
Meredith Ramirez
Thank you for choosing my question to answer! I really love the way you create such a close connection between the fans and the experts involved in the racing industry. I love being able to follow Zenyatta and her colts on their continuing journeys. Thanks again!
-Meredith
Kathy
March 2 Cherokee Devotional
Certain people affect us like a tight shoe that rubs in all the wrong places. We try to ignore it until we can get to a private place where we can get rid of it. But while we are wearing it the pain goes on and becomes nearly impossible to bear.
So much pecks away at us like dripping water until we cannot ignore it. In retrospect we see the foolishness of not handling the problem more quickly-but we were taught to ha tse s da, grin and bear it. Be nice. Be kind. But the shoe pinches and rubs and our patience grows short. How much wiser to quietly step out of the shoes and never go back.
I kept out of all the fights and troubles.
Little Raven
Arapaho
1800s
Abigail_1849
Here are some short films on Coz on the track yesterday by Larry Zapeye on INSTAGRAM. ENJOY!
https://instagram.com/p/ztI_L9s7Im/?modal=true
https://instagram.com/p/zsq0QXM7NV/?modal=true
https://instagram.com/p/zsZc8Gs7Ei/
AmyK
Thank you Abigail He’s such a handsome boy
Marty R / Colorado
Abigail, Thank you for these. I’d say Coz is coming along beautifully. I did enjoy.
shirleeinindy
Thanks Abigail,
He looks almost black in some of the photos. He is so big and beautiful.
Judy Berube From Rhode Island
Dear Shirlee:
COZ’s Daddy, Bernardini, has a very dark coat. COZ’s coat color always reminds me of Bernie. Love and Hugs, JB
Judy Berube From Rhode Island
Dear Abigail:
Thank you, thank you, thank you. Just love the way COZ moves. Love and Hugs, JB
sheena.davies(wales)
Dear Kathy.I have a few pairs of those shoes!!!We missed each other by a minute yesterday.At least the sun is shining at the Dyfi today but pretty stormy.We are going to have news of a tracked bird later this week who was presumed dead.Would’nt it be great if it was one of Monty’s offspring!I am late visiting the furbabies today Monday again turtle-turtle again!It;s good to see Zoe posting.Still no signs of Fubu it’s been a month now.Am getting worried about them surely her daughter could put a message up!James and Bob are raising money to open a cat café called”Bob’s World”either in Covent Garden or by the Angel Tube station when James used to busk he’s already raised over £40,000 in 4 days!It’s going to snow again with Ray and is already snowing with Loki!We have been promised a warm Easter just in time for Monty and Glesni’s return.A gorgeous video of a bear playing on Joey’s page.Just like a big teddy!Enjoy your Monday(if possible)Love and hugs to you,Kisses for Holly,Nikko and Sugar.Sheena.
AmyK
Thank you Abigail He’s such a handsome boy
Kathy
Dear Sheena,
Sorry we missed each other yesterday. So looking forward to the return of the ospreys. That would be great if the tracked bird is one of Monty’s. Diane seems to be recovering very rapidly. You know it helps having sweet Zoe to snuggle with! So wish I could choose to not participate in Monday just like the ratties! They are very wise! I don’t know what to think about Fubu and Kimberly. I agree, her daughter should post so we know what’s happened. Bob’s World sounds marvelous! It’s fabulous they’re raised so much in such a short time. Feeling sorry for the people in the east. Enough already with all that snow! The warmth will be a wonderful welcome for Monty and Glesni. I saw the bear video, too. It was indeed gorgeous! I’ll muddle through the day somehow. You try to enjoy the day, too. Love and hugs from me, kisses from Holly, Nikko and Sugar. Kathy.
vicki
So happy to read the comments from John. Dottie’s words were like the voice of an old friend. Did you notice the leg action of Coz after his workout? Remind you of Mom?
Sue and Tony
Great questions and answers! Coz is very lucky to be with John and Dottie.
Bluegrass Girl
Champion Wise Dan Back at the Track
By Claire Novak The Blood-Horse March 2, 2015
Two-time Horse of the Year Wise Dan will begin tack-walking and is expected to undergo further evaluation in two to three weeks as to whether he will continue progress toward a return to the races in 2015, trainer Charlie LoPresti said March 2.
Read more on BloodHorse.com: http://www.bloodhorse.com/horse-racing/articles/90412/champion-wise-dan-back-at-the-track#ixzz3TGC0UdE5
Note: WD is still healing and will not race until he is 100%
shirleeinindy
BGG,
Wonderful love and care for Danny Boy expressed by his owner. Doesn’t care if he ever races again just as long as he heals up enough to have a happy rest of his live.
Please Lord, send us more owners like this.
Judy Berube From Rhode Island
Dear Shirlee:
Amen. Love and Hugs, JB
Bluegrass Girl
The company that usually has a horse in the air ‘every hour of every day’
James Crispe Thoroughbred Racing February 27, 2015
IRT is the name of the company – International Racehorse Transport. But, were it not for the good reputation it has acquired during almost 43 years of trading, a name change would be in order to help inform the uninitiated.
For nowadays much of IRT’s trade involves horses from outside the racing industry, be they family pets, polo ponies, or competition horses from the other sports such as show jumping, dressage, or endurance.
https://www.thoroughbredracing.com/articles/company-usually-has-horse-air-every-hour-every-day
Bluegrass Girl
Among the famous horses that IRT has shipped were Makybe Diva & Black Caviar.
“The one of IRT’s six worldwide offices where more than 50 percent of its traffic still involves racehorses is in Newmarket, the “headquarters” of British racing.
And it is here, to a High Street office that backs on to the grounds of the renowned Thoroughbred auction house Tattersalls where the company’s European managing director, Jim Paltridge, is based.”
Terry Crow
Thanks to all who commented about Jerry Lambert. I am sure that he and the ‘Diver are leading the race in heaven. Here are a few redneck jokes. I was reminded of them when I remembered Jerry’s nickname of Clyde. You might be a redneck if you ever opened a beer during an eulogy. You might be a redneck if you made up your social security number. You might be a redneck if you ever stood outside of an outhouse and heckled the person inside.
Bluegrass Girl
Terry
Thanks for the chuckles.
Had a cousin named Clyde-he was a Junior.
Good memories of Jerry Lambert.
BGG
Bluegrass Girl
Convenience vs. Typecast Match Race at Hollywood Park
andtheyreoff Uploaded on Jun 3, 2007
On June 17, 1972, Glen Hill Farm’s Convenience, trained by Willard Proctor and ridden by Jerry Lambert, squared off against Westerly Stud’s Typecast (trained by A. T. Doyle with Bill Shoemaker up) in a match race which drew 53,575 spectators to Hollywood Park. Both distaffers carried 120 lbs. in this 1 1/8 miles
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e4F8pDHCErw&feature=youtu.be
Terry Crow
As far as I know this was the last match race ever at Hollywood Park. SInce I have great admiration for both men, I must admit that Jerry outrode the Shoe this time. You don’t get owners putting up money saying my horse can beat yours much anymore.
AmyK
Nice story by Jay Hovdey on “Clyde”. Great personal comments and I’m sure Terry has some stories they would love to read.
http://www.drf.com/news/hovdey-lambert-and-horses-were-same-wavelength
AmyK
Thank you for the clip. Very nice split times on those lovely girls and “Clyde” was “still” as can be in the saddle with those great hands.
Was Typecast small or Convenience the size of our Z!
Judy Berube From Rhode Island
Dear TC GP:
Things here are always just right when you post. Thanks for the smiles. Love and Hugs, JB
Marshall (NC Broad)
Thanks for the laughs, Terry!
Great way to start the week. Hope you have a good one!
Hugs and Love
Terry Crow
Judy and Marshall–Always good to visit my old friends on the blog. This is the greatest group anywhere.
pamhomeier
Funny boy!!!!!
sheena.davies(wales)
Dear Max.Kind has been confirmed in foal to Kingman.Great piece about WD he’s getting there slowly but surely.I loved LoPresti i wanting him back 100% even if he never races again,just for him to enjoy the rest of his life.If only all trainers and owners were the same.Mullins has high hopes for the Fly!Sheena.
Max
Good for Kind that she can stay home at Banstead. Hope all goes well for her.
Waiting to hear news from Proconsul.
All Danny has to do is get ready for the BC. He’s got nothing else to prove. He can stay in Keeneland if he has to rest up. If Quevega could win at Cheltenham six times without any prep ever, so can Dan. If he’s well, I just do not see The Danimal heading to retirement. Dan is like The Fly. They are both dedicated to their training and racing, very aggressive. Mullins says that he would retire The Fly if The Fly wanted to retire, but The Fly shows no interest whatsoever in retiring. He is the anti-Moose. He wants to run. And bite! Kick butt, Fly.
Judy Berube From Rhode Island
Dear Max and Sheena:
Love Mr. Lopresti; always interested in what’s best for Danny. Love and Hugs, JB
sheena.davies(wales)
Dear Max.Yes,I am waiting to see Proconsul run.Moosie just loves his life of leisure.We had a mare in Doncaster who did a half-Moose on Saturday.She gave them a 20 length start but still finished 4th.The Fly and Dan just love their job and I,for one, hope they will carry on for a long time.I have never been keen on horses retiring at 3 or 4 I understand it’s the breeding and stud value.That’s why I love the jumps horses are around for years.Sheena
sheena.davies(wales)
Dear Judy.Lovely pics of Frank,Bluebelle and the minis all getting along so well.Goodnight God bless you LM PC HT Cap Hercules Frank Boo and all the Sweeties.Love and hugs Sheena.X
Judy Berube From Rhode Island
Dear Sheena:
Yes, they get along fine. Frank and Bluebelle seem to be especially close. Goodnight. Love and Hugs, JB, LM, PC, HT, Cap, Herc, Frank, Boo and all the Sweeties
Judy Berube From Rhode Island
Dear Z, COZ, ZI, V and Montey:
Goodnight. Happy Dreams. Love all of you so much. Hugs, JB
Z Princess, Dubai, will always love you.