NEW YORK :

5/30/99: With all the hooplah for The Belmont, we have not been putting up our normal Monthly News. Next Month we will return to our Old Format of weekly Updates.
Belmont Stakes FEVER is taking over ! Expect another Record Crowd with this race next Saturday. On track fans were treated to a lovely day of horse riders showing off different forms of rodeo/fox hunting technique.
ALSO ! We saw D.Wayne ! We did not speak to him, and he for the most ignored our Three Finger Salute, but he looks all business. We held up a three finger to signify a Triple Crown. I think D.Wayne thought we were swatting at flies ! Or else he must be bothered so much by fans and since we are not one of his customers, that he simply wished to be left alone. We respect that. Good Luck for a Triple Crown ! We are cheering for one. There will be a full Belmont Stakes Spec-event page going up this week within in the Site.
5/29/99: The Stick was on track for the Mighty Metropolitan Stakes. We sat in the Owners Boxes(None of your business why !). The new Owners boxes are a real treat as they have Television Monitors in most of them ! This was a new addition this year. We felt very confident giving you Longshots for the Metropolitan Stakes. Two of our Three Selections, Crafty Friend, and Liberty Gold finsihed 2nd and 3rd as we predicted ! All you neded was Sir Bear on top(instead of Likl's Lad) for a $1,058 triple. In fact we did give you the early 5th race TRIPLE ! Your Welcome ! Sir Bear was awesome in his victory in the Met. He loves the distance and the Key to figuring him out was the Cigar Mile(which he won!) at Aqueduct.

5/20/99: All NY Fans are in for a HUGE Treat ! We have the Belmont Stakes coming up on the first Saturday in June, and we have a chance for a Triple Crown. This is the last one of the Millenium. Can Charismatic and Chris Antly pull it off ? We certainly Hope so ! When the Last Triple Crown winner Affirmed, won it all, we were standing on a table in the Belmont Terrace Dining Room screaming at the top of our Lungs.....it was incredible, and little kids should not stand on tables !

5/12/99: Beautiful BELMONT PARK OPENS TODAY WED.5/12! Ny Racing nows switches back into Serious Mode and one of the Nicest Tracks in the Country is open ! Yes ! Also Preakness is this Saturday at Pimlico.
on Wed.5/05/99: All our Old Favorite Jockeys are back. Jerry Bailey could not wait to find the Winners Circle, and he topped the day off with a THREE(3)Bagger. Race#4 Forlabid $7.90(A Stick Free Selections given out the night before.)Race #5 Treasure Cove $3.90, and Race #7 Tarquin Joe $4.00
On Thurs.5/06/99: It was The "Migs" turn. Richard Migliore had a THREE(3)Bagger. Race #3 Watch for Wallenda $5.50. Race#5 Offshore Transfer $8.30. Race #8 Sharp Standard $9.30(Another Stick FREE Winner given out the night before!)
On Sat.5/08/99: The FT.Marcy was run on a very soft turf course. Eventual Winner, Wised Up $65.00, had a horror trip and almost went down in mid stretch before clearing horses and coming on for the win for Mike Luzzi/Rob Destasio. the time was 1:45 flat for 1 1/16 Mile on soft turf. NB Forrest was second, La-Faah was third.
On Sun.5/09/99: The Beaugay HDCP was run in a time of 1:44 2/5 on a SOFT Turf for the 1 1/16 Mile. Our BEST BET ! Given out in the FREE Selections the night before came out on top. Tampico $8.10 and Jockey John Velasquez for Trainer Barclay Tagg made a very strong rally through the stretch to catch favorite UR Unforgettable. Nice ride John !

5/04/99: Where oh where do we begin ? This was a Exciting and Tragic week in NY. We had the Kentucky Derby down in Louisville, and we had some big races here in NY. Please use one of our Kentucky Derby '99 Links on our Main page or Free Selections pages to check out who we liked and what eventually happened and why.

On Sunday 5/2, we were treated to a Track Record at the 7 Furlong Distance. Strong, Veteran rider, Jorge Chavez was aboard Artax for a smashing win. The 7 Furlong finish was an unreal 1:20 flat. This breaks the record set by the immortal Dr. Fager. Fager set the old record with 135+ Pounds(Wow!). You will never see weight like that carried by a modern horse unless it is in a specialized race like the Fall highweight at Belmont Park. Artax sat off the lead of speedster Would'nt We All, and favorite Affirmed Success. Affirmed Success refuses to go beyond 6 Furlongs, although this was his best effort to date at that distance.

Taking the lead at the top of the stretch after modest fractions of 22: and 44: and change, Artax set sail for the wire, and gained flight through the stretch for the record time of 1:20 flat. Hey...The Airport is across the road !

What is also amazing is that in Artax's last race, he actually ran second to Kelly Kip, who set a new 6 Furlong Track Record. Our New York Sprinters are loaded and ready for Bear! Come on Reraise, Kona gold and Big Jag, lets go for it, Winner take all Purse !

Tragedy Struck in the next race with our same Jockey. Attempting to avoid a fallen horse ridden by Sahun Bridgmohan, who was covering up without a helmet on the ground, Jorge Chavez got his horse to duck in away from "Briggy". However, as the Horse successfully avoided Shaun(Briggy), he was body slammed inward resulting in Jorge's loss of his mounting. Jorge was caught under his horses hind legs and 'Staple-Punched' into the ground. Jorge did not appear to be concious and was down on the track for the ambulence. No Further Information was released by any source at the time of the Replay show on Cable TV. We do not know Jorge's Condition as of this writing, 05/04/99. The Entire Stick Staff, Myself(The Stick), and many of our Fans wish to send Jorge The Quickest **GET WELL** wishes, and to let him know we have him in our prayers for a speedy recovery. We hope to see you back riding very soon. Amen !

4/27/99: Bravo and Gryder get hot this week !

On Thursday 4/22, a different Jockey won each of the nine races. The competition is heating up in NY.

On Friday 4/23, Joe Bravo had a Triple. His run down is as follows. Race #1, Lenny's Ransom $4.80. Race #6, Roaring Twenties $3.60. Finally Race #9, Horse Feathers $7.70. Bravo continues to be the GOTO Jockey for Strong Trainer Joe Orseno and the Stronach Stock.

On Saturday 4/24. it was Arron (THE RYDER) Gryder Day at The Big A. Arron had a 4-Bagger ! Way to go, a Big Wave fo The Stick for you. Race #2, TV Medley $13.40. Race #3, Ghost Ring $75.50(GASP!). Race #6, Oro de Mexico $17.40(WOW!). Race #9, Spartan Mission $5.80. A TOTAL of $112.10 for Betting Gryder to win in Every Race. Assuming he rode all nine races and it cost you $18 to bet a $2 win ticket on every race for him, a FLAT WIN BET PROFIT ON GRYDER OF $94.10, Unheard Of !

On Sunday 4/25, yet again, a Different Jockey won each race on the card. Hey ! Cut that out ! We prefer Streaky Jockeys !

STAKES RACES RUN. 4/24 COMELY STKS G3, went to Madison's Charm $17.60 and Jean Luc Samyn/TA Hauswald in 1:35 2/5 for the One Mile. Second went to Better then Honour(favorite), Third was Oh what a Windfall. 4/25 EXCELSIOR Bred Cup G3, went to Smart Coupons $32.20(Wow!) for Rene Douglas/Deb.Bodner in a time of 1:49 3/5 for the Mile and an Eighth. Second was Archers Bay(favorite). Third went to Pasay.

4/20/99: Mike Smith and John Velazquez are Back......Mig and Bravo still running hot. Winter Jockeys aching for some payback !

On Fri.4/16, Every race on the Nine Race card was won by a different Jockey ! Unheard of !

On Sat.4/17, The Bed o Roses HDCP went to Stick Best Bet Cantinca $3.50. Migliore/Kimmel was the winning team. Foil finished second and License Fee was third.

On Sun.4/18, The NY Breds had two big races to run in. The Times Square Division of The NY Stallion STKS went to Heavy Favorite, Stick Best Bet, and Easy Winner Shut out Time $2.60 for the team of Bravo/Gorham. The Mile went in 1:36 3/5. In The Park Avenue Division, it was Winloc's Glorious $11.60 for Bridgmohan/Micelli. The One Mile went in 1:38 2/5.

4/12/99:In case you are not paying attention, we are getting very close to DERBY DAY ! The Kentucky Derby has such Tradition and History, that it may well be considered the Premiere Classic of American Horse Racing. The Breeders Cup may have a larger purse, but this race a much more valuable GEM to win. Tell me off the top of your head...who won the 1996 Breeders Cup Classic ? Well...times up ! Did you guess it was Skip Away at Santa Anita ? Well, now ask yourself...who won the 1996 Derby ? It was Grindstone and Jerry Baily, of course ! Why is the Derby such a storied and Popular piece of Americana ? It is a continuously run race that dates back to 1873(How did we know that?), and it epitomizes underdogs and chances and opportunities for people and horses to do the unthinkable, which is be the Best there is on that day. You can win plenty of high purse races, but never have the thrill or excitement of winning the Derby. Ask any jockey, any one of them which is the most important race to win, and they will say the Derby.

In NY this weekend, we ha the final Prep race for Three Year Olds looking towards the Derby. The Wood, now downgraded to a Grade Two race for its last few runnings still drew an impressive field with many horses running their hearts out for a shot at the Run for The Roses. Brooklyn born Nick Zito sent out Adonis to a nice win under one The Stick's main jockeys to watch, Jorge Chavez. Zito was in Kentucky for The Toyota Blue Grass Stakes, but his charge in NY was the winner. Hey Nick ! Good Job, Do we see a Three Peat on the rise for the Derby ? Zito has won with Strike the Gold in 1991, and Go for Gin in 1994. Best of Luck and the "RED HOT" team of Jean Luc Samyn w/Allen Jerkins(READ BELOW FOR EARLIER IN THE DAY WITH KELLY KIP) got up for second. Cliquot, the California invader got in for third nosing favorite Badge out. It would be nice to see a NY based Horse run well in the Derby again.

4/10/99:After praising Reraise to the Sky for his performance on Friday, WE MUST BOW OUR HEADS to The Giant Killer, H. Allen Jerkens, and his amazing Horse, Kelly Kip. If you think Nakatani had trouble holding on to Reraise, you should have seen Jean Luc Samyn(Samyn on the Green) holding on for dear life as Kip literally Flew around the Race Track like he was planning a Take Off from nearby Kennedy Airport. Kip was challenged early on the lead, but it made no difference to him. He flew up to the lead in :21 3/5, the half mile had Announcer Tom Durkin gasping as it shot by in :43 2/5(UNHEARD OF !). On his way Home, Kip's hoofs were barely touching the ground, in fact Kip may not have been putting his right fore down at all !, although this is gross speculation. The final time was an AWESOME 1:07 2/5, breaking Kip's own record...... Artax, the California horse that ran big last year chased Kip all the way around, but the race was over at the top of the stretch. Longshot King Roller, who likes to close off fast paces was practically lapped on(Well not exactly). WE mentioned in our Reraise article, some horses forget to tire ! They are just so subborn or hard headed, they forget to breath, and they forget to get heavy legs, and they just keep pushing through incredible fractions.

A HUGE Wave of The Stick to Kip, Allen Jerkens, and Jean-Luc ! You did something special and outstanding. Like Wrestlings Goldberg would say...."Who's Next ?"

Hey Reraise, Big Jag, and Kona Gold, Come and get some ! If you do decide to race with Kelly Kip, please apply appropriate asbestos to your hoofs, so that when you run with him, you all don't burn the track down !

Best of Luck to All, What a Fantastic Sprint Division this Year !

4/06/99: On Thursday 4/1 Jockey CC Lopez had a THREE(3) Bagger. His run down is as follow. Race #4, Mickeray $4.70. Race #5 Sweet Rebecca N $$19.00(wow). Race #7 Sea Horse $6.00. Good Job Chuckie, keep up the good work.

On Fri. 4/2, The Broadway HDCP was won by longshot Patty's Positive $24.20 for King/Generazio. Favorite Queen of Milbrook was second, Biogio's Baby put in a strong rally but faded to third. The winning time was 1:23 2/5 for the 7 Furlongs.

On Sat. 4/3, The G3 Westchester HDCP was won by Mr. Sinatra $6.20 for Lopez/Moschera. Favorite Laredo finished second and Brushing Up was thrid in the four horse field. The Winning time was 1:35 1/5 for 1 Mile.

Of Note, Mike Smith, a Longtime Stick Favorite Jockey is back and winning races every day. Welcome Back Mike, We can't wait for Belmont ! Write in if you read us.

4/03/99: The Veteran Jockeys and Trainers are all starting to return from Florida. Tom Durkin is back in the announcers booth(Welcome Back Tom!). We suggest you look at our Jockeys amd Trainers to watch list, located at the bottom of each regional FREE Selections Page. Mike Smith, Joe Bravo, and Richard Migliore should start to assume command of the Winners Circle. However, don't count out Ariel Smith, this Winter's Top Apprentice. Rene Douglas is also very capable, as is Arron(The Rider) Gryder. John Kimmel and H.James Bond are back for the Trainer's to watch. Joe Orseno gets the Stronach Top Guns that Pat Byrne lets stray. Keep a sharp eye out for Invaders in Stakes, they don't come here unless they think they can win.

3/24/99: Jockey Guide for ALL THREE Regions.Jockeys are key in many races. Sometimes it is hard to see who is hot right now, but we shall attempt to shed some light on this for you. It is clear that Most if not All Jockeys at a given venue are Outstanding. A Jockey simply cannot make it to the Major Racetracks in this Country without being very talented and hungry. However, sometimes certain Jockeys get HOT. They ride so well, that they are surpassing their previous abilities, or they have a strong desire to win. Perhaps they are veterans with something to prove, or perhaps they are apprentices with a desire to earn respect and get top mounts.

In NY, Veterans Richard Migliore and Joe Bravo are back from Florida. They should both be carefully followed. The "Mig" is a high percentage NY Veteran, who used to stay in NY for the Winter Months. He has been riding since he was a kid, and he is an EXPERT at Aqueduct. Plus, with the lack of large numbers of mounts by other Veterans like Baily and Smith, The Mig will assert himself. Joe Bravo, for many years a leading jockey on the NJ circuit of Monmouth and The Meadowlands, has been trying the Major NY Circuit for the last year or so, and should also be followed. Bravo has all the connections to ride Live NJ Shippers, and he has the respect and support of local trainers also. If you see Bravo riding for NJ Trainer Ed Broome, give a long extra look at that horse. Bravo and Broome combined for amazing percentages in NJ.

In Florida, Be on the lookout for Abdiel Toribio. A Long Time Florida regular, Abdiel was in Illonis until Arlington closed up, and he also tried a stint at Belmont recently. Abdiel is a top jockey and he will fill the void left by Rene Douglas a few years back. The Baker, Gary Boulanger is also a hard hitting veteran in Florida and should be watched. Also all the Local Jocks are hard working, tough riders. It is not uncommon to see 30 and 40-1 shots coming in under urging from the likes of Rosemary Homiester, Jocelyn Gomez, and many others. It appears NJ Regular Tommy Turner and even Stewart Elliot are staying for Hialeah. Turner was on his way to a great year when he suffered a injury, and was out of action. Elliot rode a little in NY and NJ and has showed he knows how to time his rides well.

In California, we are having a FIELD DAY ! Our Main Jockey to watch is Chris Antly. The Ant Man has been racking up daily winners at substantial prices, and we hope the betting public never catches on ! Antly, has a storied past, but suffice it to say, he is one of the top jockeys in the country and he is not being followed so closely due to inactivity over the 2 years. We also feel veteran Laffit Pincay Jr. is on a quest to win the ALL Time Jockey Races Won catagory, and he is not that far away from it. With less then 250 wins needed, and many daily wins Laffit is well within himself and riding to a superior ability. Laffit was and is a HARD BODY. He works out and it shows. Pound for Pound Laffit is one of the all time Greats, follow him closely or get burned. Also, we have our eye on Iggy Puglisi. This kid is rubbing elbows with an incredible Jockey colony and winning races on them ! Jockeys like Chriss McCarron, Gary Stevens, Corey Nakatani, and Kent Desormeaux would OWN any racetrack in the country outside of NY, and perhaps Churchill/Keeneland in Ky. Iggy is riding his eyeballs out, and could probably have dominated at a small track. Watch for Iggy, and you will find live longshots to cash with. As with all Jockeys, remember, they cannot overcome the inherant weakness in their horse or potential problems during the running of a race. As hard as it is to wager and lose on a horse, I would rather lose my money on one race, then see a jockey lose his livelihood or his Life. We need not look too far, which is a sad and honest fact, to find trajedy in this sport. Horse Racing is probably a lower % injury sport then say Football or Boxing....but, then again Horse Racing is not about using physical contact to win. This writer wishes to promote safety and longevity over daring and wild finishes. Ride to win, but ride safe. Be Well, MC_Excelsior.

3/23/99: On Wed. 3/17 Jockey Rene Douglas kept his winning streak alive by having another Three Bagger. That makes it two weeks in a row. Rene's Rundown is as follows, Race #3-Slice of Light $5.40, Race #7-Wised Up $8.40, Race #8 Mitch's Pitch $30.40(Wow). Good Job Rene, Wave of The Stick for you.

On Friday 3/19 Stick jockey to Watch and Stick staff favorite, Joe Bravo had a 3 Bagger. Bravo for Mr. Bravo ! Race #2-Devil's Quid $5.50, ***A STICK FREE DAILY SELECTION (Best Bet) GIVEN OUT THE NIGHT BEFORE Race #6-Laredo $3.10***, Race #9-David $3.90

Weekend Stakes 3/20-3/21. In the Next Move it was an inverted order for The Stick FREE Daily Selections given out the night before on this Web Site. Diggins and the Espinoza/Hennig Team $8.10 defeated Biogio's Rose in a time of 1:48 4/5 for the 1 1/8 mile.

In the Gotham, the last major NY Prep for The Kentucky Derby before the Wood Memorial, California Invader Appremont set sail with Blazing Early Fractions...This horse has SPEED ! Drifting out on the far turn, showing us he was tired, Appremont surrendered the lead to eventual winner Badge $25.60 Bridgmohan/Aquilino. We will have to see these two back in the Wood before we endorse their Derby Chances. The Race was a good one, fast, and solid.

3/17/99: On Thursday 3/11, Rene Douglas had a THREE(3) Bagger. His rundown, Race #5-Lauren's Lad $5.60, Race #6-Torch $8.10, Race #9-Valid Victor $6.40

The weekend stakes marked the return of some of the Stronger Veterans from Florida. On Saturday 3/13, it was The Distaff-Breeders-Cup a Grade 2 at 7 furlongs. Furlough under Heberto Castillo $30.20, and trained by Shug Mcgaughy beat Heavily favored Catinca, and Tommorows Sunshine in a time of 1:23 2/5.

Sunday 3/14, The Tobaggon Stks at 7 F was decided. The Team of Jockey Migliore and Trainer Kimmel Proved to be too tough for the competition as Would'nt we All $6.40 defeated Brushed on and Esteemed Friend. The winning time was 1:20 4/5, an *extremely* fast time for the 7 furlongs.

3/10/99: On Thursday 3/4, Jockey Ariel Smith had a good day. It was a three bagger for him. Race #1 Fair Decision $7.40, Race #4 Unridled Slippers $6.60, Race #8 Biogio's Rose $5.00

The weekend races featured the return of Jockey Joe Bravo. It may have been just for the weekend, but with his style, we hope he either stays or comes back soon to NY. In Race #2 Joe Bravo piloted Falkenberg(FYI-This is the real name of Wrestlings DDP, but I doubt the horse is related)for a $5.10 return. In The Grey Lag Hdcp, it was all the Mare, Carta de Amor in wire to wire fashion, under jockey Vlad Diaz for a $5.90 return. Juan Serey trained.

On Sunday 3/7, it was a Bravo double, as Joe piloted two winners home in the dual allw/hdcp features on TWO (2) Frank Stronach owned/Oreseno trained horses. Race #7- Gold star Deputy for $5.90. Race #8- Yodelman for $13.60.

3/01/99: NY was not nearly as active as Florida was, but there were some Hot days in the Big Apple, NYRA Style.

On Friday 2/26 NJ Jockey Dale Beckner, had a THREE(3) Bagger. Race #1 Shout About $7.10, Race #3 Richochet Romance $4.30, Race #4 Truly Classic $31.00 for a nice return and a good day for Dale, Well Done.

Saturday 2/27 saw Badge with Last years sensation Shaun Bridgmohan return $6.60 in a time of 1:10 2/5 for 6 furlongs.Sunday 2/28, it was Kashatreya for a $9.80 return under Julio Pezua, on a sloppy track also in 1:10 2/5.

CALIFORNIA:

5/30/99: Our Jockeys to watch Chris Antly, and IGGY Puglisi are still winning races. We pointed Chris out to you Long Before he was in Vogue ! Just look back at our News Section Archieves(Takes about a minute to load due to large text file-get a soda while it does !). Chris has the biggest date of his Racing Life on Saturday. We at The Stick wish Chris a Safe, Strong, Successful trip around the Belmont Oval. Go Chris Go ! Lets have a Triple Crown, thats a comeback ! However, even if you should not win(NO WAY!) we still have to salute you for your incredible comeback. A Kentucky Derby and Preakness for a jockey who has just returned from a long hiatus is unprecidented.
Double B has an entry looming of Prime Timber and Silver Bullet Day. Both have an upset chance. Everyone in the Country has been following Superstar Silver Bullet Day. She may try to steal this endurance race. However, its much harder to steal a 1 1/2 mile race then it is to steal a 1 1/8 mile race or shorter. Winning Colors was an Amazon, and she breathed fire through the lane in the 1988 Belmont Stakes. Even the great Ladies Secret only won against boys when she tackled Kings Swan and Gulch in a 3 horse race in NY(WHO HAS A MEMORY LIKE A TACK ? THE STICK RULES!). Be wary of horses who have already lost multiple times by large margins to the top three or four horses in the Belmont. Menifee still stands as a honest standard to defeat in the Belmont.
Oh...Laffit Pincay continues to win races at Hollywood Park also on his quest to become the All time Leading Winning Jockey. We have to double check his stats to see how far away he is, but he has been having a porductive week in California. Of Note ot our Regular News readers. Both Wed. 5/26, and Thurs. 5/27, saw every race won by a different Jockey on the Day(UNHEARD OF!). The competiton in California is really severe and everyone is hungry to win. Corey Nak, and Black both had winners. Emile Ramsammy wants to grab the limelight too. Dan Sorenson and Matt Garcia are riding hard and getting wins. Not to mention veterans like Chris McCarron, and Kent Desormeaux. The Stick wishes to give A BIG WAVE in salute to the incredible riders in California. What an incredible show of talent you are putting on for the fans. The NY/KY colonies has no need to see you come visit ! Best of Luck from us and keep the standard high. We always Salute Hard Working, Honest People everywhere, especially Jockeys. Be Well, Regular News Format to return next week.

5/20/99:Jockey Gary Stevens is switching his tack to England ! He will be the Top Contract Rider for Mel Stute trained, HH Aga Khan Owned Horses, and others.

We at The Stick hope Gary does very well, but that he returns after his initial 6 Months. Gary is one of those Super Jockeys, and this is his "Michael Jordan" Approach to Baseball ! In other words Gary is looking for new moutains to climb. Like Michael, we expect Gary to be back after he gets his fill of another type of riding.

To Gary Stevens, from The Stick..."Ride Hard, Do Well, Come back Safe every time !"

We hope Gary does not forget about the excessive use of ..."THE STICK!" that English Racing has. All of our fans are free to use our Selections and us Excessivly !

5/13/99: Well, The Secret is out, We have been covertly telling you how good Chris Antly was, now the WHOLE World knows. This week Antly and Nakatani had multiple win days.
On Thurs.5/06, a Different Jockey won each of the Races at Hollywood, showing you how competitive they truly are,UNHEARD OF !
On Sat.5/08, The Will Rogers HDCP was won by Eagleton $28.40 and the team of Corey Black/Kevin Lewis in a time of 1:34 2/5 for the One Mile on Turf. Longshots Hidden Magic and Mr.Reignmaker finshed second and third.
On Sun.5/09, The Wilshire HDCP a G3, at 1 Mile on Turf, was won by Sapphire Ring $7.40 and the team of Gary Stevens/Neil Drysdale in a FAST Time of 1:33 4/5 for the 1 Mile on TURF. Longshot Bella Chiara was second for a Stick Longshot Exacta, given out the night before. Green Jewel was thrid.

5/04/99: The Stick TOP JOCKEY, who has been TOUTED TO YOU FOR THE LAST TWO MONTHS WINS THE DERBY ! We have been ARDENT Chris Antly Supporters, and we could not be happier for Chris. Hey Chris, join our Club in Yahoo and chat with our Fans ! They have been writing in asking me questions about you. You can answer them better then I.

Now as for The Derby ! Charismatic, a lightly raced colt from the barn of Another Stick Favorite, D.Wayne Lukas, bid his time well, avoided the traffic problems that others fell right into, and came on the outside for the Big Win in America's Most Prestigeous Race. If you watch the replay carefully of thwe ABC coverage, D.Wayne does a flip flop in his rooting for his horses. Cat Thief, Our Second Selections Pick, had the lead through the stretch and D.Wayne is cheering for him. When D.Wayne see's Thief falter and Charismatic come on the outside...well, he starts to root for Chris ! Go Chris go !

As we have made the case in our Derby Sepcial page, a Race of this magnitude always runs strange. Too many horses, too little desiarable spots on the turns, crowd noise, etc. However, after all is said and done, there is still a winner. Charismatic had run in the El Camino Real Derby very well, and our close connection to some people over at Bay said they liked this Horse. If we had gone on faith alone, and not given you any scientific or empiracle evidence, we could have given out Charismatic. It would not have been fair or reasonable to give you our selections based on emotions. We pride ourselves with giving all our Fans(Subscribing and Freebie) The Best Possible Product we are capable of. Based on the Numbers, Charismatic could not be given out in the top 10 horses. He simply had not raced well enough, or as many consistant times as the others in the field. He was the Best Horse on the First Saturday in May, and for that we Salute our Friends and Hero's D.Wayne Lukas, and Chris Antly. The Preakness should be one hell of a race. Menifee may have something to say about it. Also Cat Thief is not out of The Preakness by any means ! Cat Thiefs Speed may help him steal the Preakness. Remember Deputed Tesimony in the 80's ? He stole the race on the lead. Pimlico has very sharp turns. Also, remember the Preakness is a shorter race by 1/16 of a mile then the Derby.

Congratulations to Bob and Beverly Lewis, D.Wayne Lukas and of course, one of our favorite Jockey, Chris Antly.

4/27/99: HOLLYWOOD PARK Opened on Friday 4/23. Our Stick Jockeys we have been watching closely came in 1st and second in the 7th Race on Sunday 4/25. It was an !IGGY! Puglisi/Chris Antly Exacta worth $27.40 in the 7th Race. Gary Stevens and Kent Desormeaux riding very Strong and doing well.

STAKES ACTION: Sat.4/24 The Melair STKS was won by Crystal Ann $18.20 for Estaban Gomez(New Face)/Lyman Rollins in 1:17 2/5 for 6 1/2 Furlongs. Dusty Heather was Second. Memoranda was Third. On Sunday, it was the Hawthorne HDCP won by Victory Stripes $8.20 and Chris McCarron/Ron McNally in a time of 1:41 3/5 for the 1 1/16 Mile. Second went to Magical Allure. Third went to Housa Dancer.

4/20/99: It was two days of Unheard of different jockeys winning the races at SA. Stick Jockeys to watch, Chris Antly and Laffit Pincay are hot, and both had multiple win days this week.

On Sat.4/17, The San Simeon went to Nanjina $25.20. The Team of McCarron/Mitchell took home the win. Expressionist was 2nd and Indian Rocket was 3rd. The winning time was 1:13 2/5 for 6 1/2 Furlongs on the Turf.

On Sun.4/18, The Las Cienegas, a G3 went to Desert Lady $4.20. The team of Nakatani/Mandella brought home the winner in a time of 1:13 3/5 for 6 1/2 Furlongs on the Turf. Hula Queen was 2nd and Bella Chiara was 3rd.

4/12/99: Double B(Bob Baffert) holds ALL THE ACES. General Challenge, Prime Timber, even Excellent Meeting(if she ran) stand as the horses to beat and deprive Baff of his thrid straight Derby. Imagine if Cavonnier had won in 1996 ? Worldly Manner might be a great horse, but his training schedule and the odd way in which his owners want to prepare him for a race of this magnitude make it unlikely he will acclimate on time for the race. Look for Baff to three-peat. Winners_Inc3/16 says The Stick told you who's going to kick ass(Jacque from the quotes, take note of the phrase) in the Derby.

4/10/99:

Wow ! 4/08/99: Can you say 1:08 3/5 ? RERAISE !!! The Breeders Cup Sprint Winner Returned with Rocket Engines straped to his back. Corey Nakatani had to use all his strength just to hold on, and stay aboard !

The Count Fleet stakes at Oaklawn Proved to be one incredible race. As expected, the prohibitive Odds on choice was a BIG Winner.

The Stick wants to point out that EJ Harley is a very Nice Horse and should be followed with interest. It is one thing to run against 99 percent of the Sprint division, and something very different to run against the likes of Reraise. We clearly expect EJ Harley to Dominate the Sprint Division in The Mid-West, and we look forward to his attempts to travel East or West to take on the Big Guns again.

Both BIG Jag, and Kona Gold are no doubt getting ready for a BIG Showdown with the "Other" Top Sprinter in the country. For our part, Big Jag can make Reraise earn his next win if they meet. If I were Kona Gold's trainer(which I am not), I would try nd get him used to coming from off the pace. Reraise and Big Jag could really cook each other in a speed duel...the only problem is....what if they forget to stop ? Reraise does not seem to understand that most horses get tired after blazing through fractional times of :21, and :22. Reraise seems to think he's supposed to keep running that fast all the way around !

Also, One wonders what horses like The Exeter Man, Mr. Doubledown, are going to do when the BIG THREE come around. Probably run for cover in a $80K Opt Clmg.

4/06/99: It was Antly Week for the Early Races at Santa Anita. Chris, write in if you read us ! On Fri. 4/1, Antly won on Don't i Wish, $10.40. Chris even had the Double, winning the Second race of the day on Gambling Champ, $3.40. That same day, another Stick Jockey to Watch for Value, !IGGY! Puglisi had a winner in the 8th Race, Rising Fire $11.80.

On Saturday 4/2 Chris Antly does it again in the 1st Race aboard Always Game $3.40. Finally on Sunday, The Ant Man won again in the 1st Race for Three Days in a Row ! Wow, way to go ! It was A Lady from Dixie $3.40. It appears the betting public is starting to catch on..shoot ! A Big Wave of The Stick to The Ant Man. Go Chris Go.

Article Posted for All Stick Fans the Friday before the Santa Anita Derby.

IT looks like Bread and Butter day for Double B.-Bob Baffert(REMEMBER TO QUOTE OUR COINED PHRASE FOR BAFFERT ! WE WILL APPLAUD YOU ALL OVER OUR PAGES IF YOU ARE A HORSE JOURNALIST AND YOU MENTION US-TELL US IF YOU DO!) Both of his mounts General Challenge w/Gary Stevens up, and Prime Timber w/David Flores look to be coming in to the race at their peak.

There is a Surprise Filly going for Juddmonte and Bobby Frankel. Kent D will have his work cut out for him. The "Lady" will get a weight break, but she picked one tough spot to run against the boys. If anyone could get her ready it would be NY Born Frankel.

The others in this race will really have to run beyond their past abilities.

LOOK NO FURTHER then General Challenge. Prime Timber might make a race of it, but Double B is holding all the cards for Saturday's SA DERBY.

Gary Stevens should have this race in the bag at the quarter pole. If not, he might be in trouble. Also, remember not to leave out Prime Timber just because he is the perceived "SECOND" string of the Baffert Stronghold of 3 YR OLDS. Flores has won many BIG races for Baffert, and Timber could be the Surprise of this season. Remember Real Quiet was the "SECOND" String behind Indian Charlie, and Quiet went on to win the Derby and Preakness.

4/03/99: ***Chris Antly*** We Told You so, We Told You so, We Told You so ! We have to gloat, but the Antly Express is starting to roll ! CHRIS ANTLY, WRITE IN IF YOU READ US ! Chris has been hitting the early races all this week. He even had a Daily Double the other day. Look for him on anything with four legs. Be careful not to get pulled in on the public's over betting of him. His Win mutual has plummeted. However, he is still our TOP Jockey to Watch in The Country right now, and we very much hope to see him in the Derby(Remember Strike the Gold?). Go Chris Go !

In other Jockey News, "IGGY" Puglisi remains live, and this kid has a BIG future ahead of him. He has to be Value Play on any Live Horse he rides. He has been consistant at odds of 5-1 or greater, use him in Exotics !

***Laffit***, The Great Pincay will break the ALL Time Jockey Record for Wins this year. His riding is just fantastic this year. He has a solid agent, and many Trainers are supporting him. It would be a Moment in Horse Racing history to see him break the record in a BIG Race. We at The Stick are Solidly Behind you Laffit, Go For It ! Ride Hard, Win Big, Be Safe All the Way Around.

Well here's a BIG Story for you Club Fans ! It appears Double B lost his temper with a Jockey agent. In a story reported by Steve Anderson in DRF(Daily Racing Form), Double B was interested in using his main Goto Jockey Gary Stevens on General Challenge in the BIG Santa Anita Derby this Saturday. FYI-That is the Last BIG Prep for West Coast based horses before The Kentucky Derby. Chris McCarron's agent(Scotty McClean-something) felt that Baff had committed to using him for the mount. Well Baff and the agent got into a heated discussion, and apparently Baff shoved him. Well this landed everyone in the Stewards Office to explain. In Defense of the Agent:a commitment is most certaintly a commitment. Jockeys give their suport to a horse and thus cannot ride for anyone else at a later date should that horse not run. Also, the agreement between Jockey/Agent and Trainer has always been a verbal agreement. That is the Trade Practice. However ! In Defense of The Trainer: The trainer is Ultimatley responsible for the well being of the horse, and for that horse to do well and perform. If the horse does not perform, the Trainer runs the risk of losing that horse to someone else or of having his reputation dimished. This is a tough call. Double B did not know Gary Stevens was going to be available to ride this weekend at Santa Anita. Also Stevens is his Main Man for ALL of his horses. Was Double B just filling in Chris to ride this weekend, and have Gary ride him back in the Derby ? Both Chris McCarron and Gary Stevens are among the Greatest Jockeys of this era. Neither would give a bad ride, or diminish any horses chances. In fact, both jockeys would probably add to a horse's ability level by giving him the best possible ride for that race. Write in Stick Fans ! Tell us what you think ! Does Double B owe McCarron the mount ? OR, Does Double B have the right to use whatever Jockey he wants on Horses he trains ? We Want to hear from you. WRITE IN, TELL US WHAT YOU THINK !

3/29/99: Dubai, always a Hard Journey and a Tough Race in the Heat and the Sand. The Dubai World Cup was an extremely difficult race for Silver Charm. According to Double B-Bob Baffert, Charm Bled during the race and was unable to run his normal strong race. Jockey Gary Stevens was interviewed on the ESPN Racing show yesterday via video tape. Gary said that Charm had to be used just to keep his position(which is a bad sign), and that turning for home, charm did not have his usual kick. It is easy to understand why, considering Gary did not know Charm had bled during the race.

The Stick believes that Silver Charm can be considered one of the top 10 greatest horses of all time. Don't focus on his recent losses, look back to his incredible run. At the end of his 3 yr old year, he had never finished worse then 2nd, and that was only 2-3 times. He is a Kentucky Derby Winner, and a Preakness Winner. Some Owners would have retired him right there for stud ! He has danced every dance, and should be remembered most of all for his galliant Triple Crown try, in which he was narrowly beaten by Touch Gold. He has run with the likes of Skip Away, Awesome Again, Free House, and countless other Champions of this decade. Charms Owners, Bob and Beverly Lewis deserve credit for running Charm into his 5 yr old year. Most other owners in the past 10-15 years immediately retire a horse who has only won one or two classics for the Large Stud Fee returns. We had the opportunity to see Charm run in many races. Thank You for letting us enjoy him !

The final result of the top FOUR(4) for The World Cup was Almutawakel..w/R.Hills $90 payoff in North America Malek..w/Alex Solis, best finish of American Based horses. Alex almost pulled it off with a big rush on the rail. Victory Gallop...w/Jerry Baily, a valliant close on the outside, but flattened out in the final strides, probably due to heat and stress from the long travel. Jerry gave him every chance to win. Central Park...w/o'Donohoe, a great finish for another big lonshot. Winner owned by Sheik Hamden Al Maktoum Trained by S.bin Surror.

3/23/99: Nice week in California for The Stick Selections.

On Wed. 3/17 in the La Habra, it was all Aviate $13.00 McCarron/West in a time of 1:15 1/5(fast) for the 6 1/2 F on the Turf.

On Thursday 3/18, The Stick Jockey to Watch..Chris Antly( Go Chris !) won the first race Luminous Prize for a $25.80(big) payoff.

On Friday 3/19, Another Stick Jockey to Watch, "Iggy" Puglisi won the 1st race aboard Local Syn $39.20(wow). Also, on the card, A Big Wave of The Stick goes out to Jockey Randy Valdez. Who, in the 8th Race, brought home The Stick LongShot of The Week. Sally's Pie paid a HUGE $88.80. Way to go Randy ! Send us an Email when you have the Feeling friend !

Saturday 3/20 again proved our asserions about the Ant Man. Antly strikes in the 3rd Race aboard Escance for a modest $10.80 selection. We are getting ready to say we told you so ! Watch The Antly Express carefully, or get burned ! In The Santa Ana, a G2, it was The Stick FREE Daily Selections (IN ORDER !) that were given out the night before on our FREE Selections Page. See You Soon, A Stick Best Bet, paid $3.80 for Desormeaux/Frankel. Blending Element was 2nd followed by La Madame. Our FREE Daily Picks continue to be *HOT* ! Imagine if you had the Whole Card ?

We had a Treat on sunday 3/21. Santa Anita was the home of this years Jockey Challenge between USA and Europe.

The Annual USA vs Europe Jockey challenge was held at Santa Anita this Sunday.

Captains did not Ride

Team America was Captained by All Time Leading American Race Winner Bill Shoemaker.

Team Members were #1)Kent Desormeaux #2)Julie Krone #3)Russell Baze #4)Alex Solis A Very Formidable Team for The Americans.

Team Europe was Captained by Steve Cauthen. Team Members were #1)Cash Asmussen #2)Kieran Fallon #3)Olivier Peslier #4)Mike Kinane An Incredible Array of Talent.

This was one of the finest Jockey Challenges to memory.

The Stick had touted Team USA(OF COURSE !) feeling that Jockey Kent D. would bring it all home for the Americans. As it turned out, Kent did finish the highest of the American Jockeys in the challenge, coming in 2nd overall. Jockey Kieran Fallon was Most Impressive, and he took Top honors for the overall competition. In the End, The Europeans won this years Jockey Challenge, despite a valliant effort from Superstars Baze, Krone, Solis and Kent D. Don't worry guys(and Gal-Julie) ! We will get them next year. You rode like champions, and winning is only everything when your wagering on it. The Stick Gives a *BIG WAVE* of The Stick to our fine Jockeys for their outstanding efforts. Team Captain Bill Showmaker included. You gave Team Europe a run for their money, and ours. The Stick wishes to Congratulate the Fine job done by Team Europe, and say...Team USA will be back next year to go at it again.

"To All Jockeys, be Well, Ride Hard, Bring them back Live, and Have a Safe Trip All The Way Around" -(c)The Stick 1999

Also on the Sunday card was the San Luis Rey a G2 with Single Empire $11.20 Desormeaux/Drysdale getting up to win. Former Champs Dushyantor and Lazy Lode did not have it on Sunday. Also, The Antly Express marches on with Race #10, and Luftikus $8.00. Watch Antly, he is much better then people know !

3/17/99: Can you say...Baffert ? As in Bob Baffert ? He RULED the weekend, and is proving to be the #1 trainer in California and maybe in the Country this year.

On Friday 3/12 it was the Tokyo City Stakes, which the Stick FREE SELECTIONS had given out the top two the night before. Classic Cat $3.60 and Gary Stevens defeated Budroyale and Sea of Secrets.

On Saturday 3/13 it was a major Triple Crown Prep in the San Filipe Stks. It was again trainer Double B with Prime Timber $7.60, this time with jockey David Flores defeating favorite and other Baffert trainee Exploit. High Wire Act was third. the time for the 1 1/16 was 1:42 and 1/5. Watch for Prime Timber as he has won the most important prep of the 3 yr old races as proven over the last few years. Of Note, Baffert was not at Santa Anita to watch the Race because he was saddling Silver Bullet Day to a HUGE win in the slop in the Fair Grounds Oaks.

Sundat 3/14 was the Santa Anita Oaks, and can you guess which trainer contributed to the win ? It was again the unbeatable Double B(Coined Phrase by The Stick, mention us if ou use this term and give our web site ! We will praise you to the moon) Excellent Meeting $2.20 and Kent Desormeaux defeated tout Charmant and Gleefully in a time of 1:43 2/5 for the 1 1/16. This win gives Baffert a Large sweep of victories in the major stakes this weekend outside of Florida and NY. A very Impressive Accomplishment and a BIG Wave of the Stick to Double B. Job well done.

3/10/99: Well the Jockey Colony at Gulfstream may be a deep field of veterans, but Santa Anita's Colony is take no prisoners !

On Wed. 3/3 the jockeys all decided it was war ! Each race on the day was won by a different Jockey ! Unheard of ! The track must be playing very even, and the quality of horses and trainers is really bubbling over with talent. *Of Note, The Purse Structure at Santa Anita this year is Extremely high, and it is serving to lure many owners to run their horses in Southern California.

On Saturday 3/6, Santa Anita had its Premiere Day of the Meeting. It was Big Cap day, and time for The Santa Anita HDCP to be run. The Stick had bowed to pressure from his subscribers to NOT give out our Selections. We respect our paying customers views, and did not release those picks on our FREE Page.

We had touted Event of The Year as a surprise upset to the race due to his connections. Golden Eagle Farm is well known for Best Pal, and for their outstanding Breeding Operations in California. Also, Trainer Dick Mandella, who is well known for his paired entry a few years ago that defeated Cigar was signalling many Red Flags to our Staff. Eventual Winner Free House $10.20 under Chris McCaron in 2:00 3/5 for 1 1/4 miles, had the race all his own way. He went to the front, and had mild pressure from longshot, European invader, Dr. Fong. As they turned for home, Free House had the race on his terms and set sail for the wire. He held off a strong charge on the far turn from Event of the Year, and Silver Charm closed well for third.

We had Selected Event of The Year over Free House with Silver Charm Third. We were very happy to see our Boxed combinations come in for the triple and exacta. Silver Charm is still a great horse, perhaps he needs a race or two to get back on top. His third place finish was an outstanding effort, that would have won most races. Credit and a Wave of The Stick to trainer Paco Gonzalez who sticks very close to this horse, and obviously loves him as much as his owners do. Job well done, and at the right time..in a $1 Million Race ! We are not forgeting Puerto Madero. It should be noted that Puerto Madero ran his eyeballs out in Florida when he won the Donn HDCP. For all experienced horse players, and novices....that is what we call a BOUNCE RACE for him. Watch for Puerto Madero back after a short freshening.

There were other BIG Stakes races on the Saturday card at Santa Anita. In race #3, The Arcadia HDCP, we saw the return of Breeders Cup Turf runner up Hawksley Hill. Also, California regular Ladies Din showed up for a big race. The finish had upset choice Lord Smith winning and paying $16.00 for One of The Stick Jockeys to watch, Garret Gomez. Hawksley Hill, and fellow favorite in the race Ladies Din came in 2nd and 3rd respectivly.

Race #7 was the San Carlos, and it featured some of the top Sprinters in the division right now. The Stick (GAVE OUT !) put up the finish for this race the night before when it had Big Jag over Kona Gold for all to see. Big Jag won in a blazing fast time of 1:21 1/5 for the 7 furlongs for Jockey Jose Valdivia jr., and owner trainer JH Zolezzi. Good Job ! I'm sure they are not looking forward to meeting up with Breeders Cup Sprinter Reraise later in the year, but the Stick says, "Bring him on !" Lets have a big showdown in the Sprint division.

On Sunday 3/7 it was all Favorite Manistique $2.60 and jockey Gary Stevens in the Santa Margarita HDCP., in a time of 1:48 2/5 for 1 1/8 miles

3/01/99: On Friday 2/26 Jockey Corey Black impersonated NY's Dale Beckner and also had a THREE(3) Bagger. He must have been watching on the simulcast and got jealous ! Race #1-Ragin reggie for $9.00, Race #2- Western Prince for $3.20, and Race #5- Prized Max $31.20 ***STRANGE !!! BECKNERS in NY, THIRD WINNER paid $31 also !!!***

On Saturday 2/27, it was The Corey Nakatani Express in the first of his two Weekend Stakes wins. The Buena Vista Hdcp went to Tuzla and Corey for a $3.40 return. On Sunday 2/28, it was again, Corey Nak, and Desert Hero for a $22.80 return in the San Rafael. Good Job Corey ! Sunday was also notable because it was the second day in the last three that Chris Antly took the first race. Avenue of the Stars for $6.00 under Chris shows, he is just getting ready to stretch his muscles. Watch out for Chris Antly, and don't be mad when The Stick says, I Told You So !, as he wins races in bunches...Coming Soon to a Simulcast near you.

FLORIDA:

5/30/99: Sir Bear does Floridians proud ! A long time Florida competitor, Sir Bear, came up to NY and showed an Elite group of horses what he was made of. Trainer Ralph Ziadie should be very proud. the 6 year old was ridden by NY Superstar John Velasquez. The time of 1:34 2/5 was very respectable, and his highness paid $14+ to win. Our Two Longshot Selections that we gave away FREE for a BIG Weekend Promotion, Crafty Friend and Liberty Gold, came in second and third as we predicted. Favorites Affirmed Success and Cat Thief were off the board. Normal Stick News Format to return next week.

5/20/99:
Jockey Rene Douglas is heading back to Florida. After a Great Aqueduct meeting, where Rene finished tied for Second, Rene felt that going back to his old stomping grounds was the right move. We wish you well also, Rene. You know that old saying...Its better to be a BIG Fish in a Small pond ?

5/12/99: Florida's 1st American out of Preakness this Saturday. Jockeys Javiar Castellano, Rosemary Homeister pick up doubles on multiple days. Hard, competitive Jockey Colony in South Florida this Spring/Summer. They are battling each other daily and the results show just how hard it is to put together multiple win days for anyone.
On 5/08/99: Oliver Castillo hits three in a row. Race #5 Toowet toPlow $15.80, Race #7 Emmancipate $28(WOW!) capping a $17,000+ Superfecta, Race #8 Proud Whirl $18.60. Outstanding job Oliver ! A Big Wave of The Stick to you, all those horses were double digit payoffs, a very impressive feat.
Also on 5/08, the Enjoy The silence STKS was run in a time of 1:24 3/5 for 7 Furlongs. The Winner Was Conquiestality $11.60 for Jockey Eibar Coa and Trainer GE Sanders. Second was Pyrite Fab, Third went to Cash's Pride.
On Monday 5/10, ROSEMARY HOMEISTER DAY ! Rosemary had Four Winners, including the first three races ! Way to Go ! A Huge Wave of The Stick for you. Race #1, Forget about logic $3.00, Race #2 Grooming Needles 4.40, Race #3 Rich Emotions $3.00, and Race #9 Princess Pietrina $3.80.

5/04/99:

Florida Based First American and Three Ring made their Derby tries this weekend. We touted and Played First American, and Three Ring in Exotic wagering. The inevitable unforseen traffic jams and bumping and crowd noise we have been speaking about effected this Derby Field very much. Many horses were caught four and five wide around the entire track. First American is a very nice horse, he simply had too much to do. Going down the backstretch, First American had a huge hole to ride up into. He could have used the rail for what Harness People call, a "Pocket Trip". Due to the speed of the front runners and their jump on everyone else, American could not close the gap and take advantage of it. Coming through the stretch, American was hopelessly buried on the rail. He lost all chance at the eighth pole. We think very highly of Trainer Caramori's talents, and look for First American in a lighter Stake, where we have no doubt he will win for fun.

Three Ring is a very talented and wonderful Filly. We follow John Velasquez closely at Belmont, and know how Very Strong he is. Sometimes when you run a filly against the male horses, they either run away like a rabbit, or get bullied about and give up. Three Ring was given a severe assault coming out of the gate ! This beautiful, young girl was roughed up by some big bad boys, and she really had every right to want to be somewhere else. After repeated bumps and hits from horses around her, Three Ring found herself in the hopeless position of Last Place going into the first turn. Three Ring is a Filly that likes to go out on the lead, so she was in a no-win position. John did everything he could with her, but once your beaten and out of it by 40-50 lengths, its better to save your horse for another day. Three Ring will be back to give Silver Bullet Day and Excellent Meeting a strong challenge in the Big Filly Races later this year. Watch for her back after a short vacation and freshening.

4/27/99: Rosemary Homeister heats up. Javiar Castellano also tough. Veteran Jose Ferrer gets hot at the end of the week.

On Tues.4/20, Rosemary had a Triple ! Good Job, wave of The Stick for you. Race #4, Bannana River $7.20. Race #8, Dancers Attitude $4.60. Race #9, Silver Invitation $8.80.

On Wed.4/21, it was Javiar's turn for a Triple. Another Wave of The Stick must go out. Race #4, Cali $4.20. Race #7, Carnelevare $15.20. Race #9, Francisco $3.80.

On Sun.4/25, Jose Ferrer had a Triple. Race #1 Highway Bound, $6.80. Race #2, Sun Fighter $3.00. Race #5, Hard to Handle $16.80.

STAKES RACES: Sat.4/24, Seminole HDCP was won by Fig Fest $4.80 for Abdiel Toribio/WP White in a time of 1:50 1/5 for 1 /18 Mile. Second went to Sumemr Lucky, Third was Dancing Guy. On Sun.4/25, Silver Echo HDCP went to Silk City $7.60 and Javiar Castellano/Luis Olivares in a time of 1:03 3/5 for 5 1/2 Furlongs on the Turf. Kissin Jeb was second. Noble Robyn was third.

4/20/99: Veteran Jose Ferrer is riding well.

On Fri.4/16, Veteran Jose Ferrer had a three bagger. In Fact, Jose won the First Three races ! Good Job, Jose ! A Big Wave of he Stick for you. Race #1, Sea Emperor $3.40, Race #2, Flowers for Helen $4.20, Race #3, Silverio $10.00

On Sat.4/17, it was the Hialeah Turf Cap that captured the spotlight. NY Regular, Robbie Davis won the $200k G2 with Federal Trial $6.60 for trainer Lou Goldfine. Shapr Appeal was 2nd, and Karamiyan was third in a time of 1:52 3/5 for the 1 3/16 on the Turf.

On Sun.4/18, all 11 races were won by different Jockeys ! "Unheard of !"(T)The Stick. The Bahama's Stakes went to Sagathun $8.40 and the team of Abdiel Toribio and Carlos Morales. The winning time for 7 Furlongs was 1:24 3/5.

4/12/99: It was Toyota Blue Grass for the Florida based runners aiming for the Kentucky Derby. Now wait a minute...The Toyota Blue Grass was run in Kentucky at Kenneland, not in Florida. Why then is the news for it on the Florida page ? I will tell, you...he race had all of the horses that had campaigned so well at Gulfstream this Winter, and we got to see them on a different surface. It appears that if you mix the pace scenario a certain way, you will produce a different winner every time. In the Fountain of Youth, we saw Vicar escape to a soft lead and hold off everyone in the race. In the Florida Derby, it appeared Cat Thief was going to rate and take the race wire to wire. Then it appeared that Wondertross would close on the outside and win...However, as they came through the stretch, it was again Vicar under shane Sellers getting up for the win.

How then should we have gauged the Blue Grass ? Cat Thief switched jockeys to one our favorites, Mike Smith. This guaranteed that Thief was coming from off the pace. Vicar had everything to like about a horse. He had put back to back victories in graded stakes against most of this field. However ! Vicar now had to run at Kenneland. For the ecord, Kenneland is one of the most competitive courses in this country. An abbriviated meeting and HUGE purses insure that the finest of all horses will race there. Vicar had to overcome a change, and two hard races that he already ran. He did what any $2 bettor would tell you is described as a bounce. A Bounce occurs when a horse has run his eyeballs out recently and does not run back to his prior race in terms of performance.

Menifee, an extremely lightly raced horse(3 Prior Starts), had Pat Day(Pat, wait all Day!) and his ride was incredible. Running the race like his horse was a Trotter sitting in the pocket, Pat drafted in behind the leading pack, including off the pace closer Cat Thief, and Vicar. Angling off the rail, just as any top pacer or trotter would "Pull the Pocket", and Pat drew clear for the win. Do not forget what happened to Pulpit ! He ran big here and did not do well in the Derby. Pulpit was also lightly raced and had tremendous talent, but was unable to win the Derby.

In Arkansas, it was 30-1 Maiden Valhol upsetting a large bunch of California Jockeys and there mounts in what can only be called a shocker. Baffert is the man with all the aces. Prime Timber should be carefully watched.

4/06/99: Hialeah has been running straight through for the last two weeks without a single day off ! People must really LOVE Horse Racing in South Florida.

On Wed. 3/31, The Jockey Colony showed just how tough and competitive they are. EVERY RACE was Won by a Different Jockey. They had ELEVEN(11) Races, and this is "UNHEARD OF!". A BIG Wave of The Stick to all the fine Jockeys at Hialeah.

On 4/3, It was *Flamingo Day*. Despite the BIG Gulfstream meet and their Florida Derby, the last major Florida Prep is the Flamingo STKS at Hialeah. Favorite Prime Directive was out of the money, despite the BIG switch to Trainer Pat Byrne and Top Jock Pat Day. Turning for Home Directive was out of gas. Expect Byrne to do wonders with him after a short freshening and we at The Stick Expect you will see him again soon. The Big winner was Brazilian owned First American, $8.00, and the team of Velez/Caramori. Forty one Carats was second, and Vision and Verse was third. The Winners time was 1:48 4/5 for the 1 1/8 mile.

OF NOTE* on 4/3, Eibar Coa, a Stick jockey to Watch had a THREE(3)Bagger. Race #1, Indy Money $4.80. Race #3, Bolero Type $11.20. Race #7, Rebel Star $4.20. A Big Wave of The Stick for Eibar. Keep up the Good Work.

4/03/99: Watch out for the Veterans that choose to stay in Southern Florida right now. Eibar Coa is geting reaquainted with Hialeah, and he will be a major player if he stays. Jose Rivera, II and Javiar Castellano know how to find the Winners Circle. Also, Rosemary Homeister is riding very well as of late. Julie Krone has nothing on Rosemary. However, it is notable that Julie is riding at the peak of her career, and it will be interesting to see where she shows up now that the Fair Grounds has concluded their meet. Also, there are many hot Apprentices riding at Hialeah, lets try and find out who is going to be next years sensation.

3/23/99: The NorthEasterns may be going home for the Spring, but Hialeah still had some nice races this weekend. Saturday 3/20 it was all Swamp $3.60 in the Everglades with NY Regular Jockey Migliore. John Kimmel trained for a winning time 1 1/16 turf in 1:42 2/5.

On Sunday 3/21, the G2 Widener, a very Famous and storied Race was renewed. Golden Missle $7.80 and the Day/Byrne combination for Top Owner Frank Stronach won, defeating odds on Sir Bear. Sunday's Patricia Stks saw Wild Heart Dancing $14.00 and the team of Castellano/Standrige in a time of 1:42 2/5 for the 1 1/16.

On Monday 3/22, Jockey Abdiel Toribio had a Three Bagger. He is a Jockey to watch at Hialeah. The rundown is Race #6-Etaria $21.80, Race #9-Derivative $4.80(*A Stick FREE Selection* Given out the Night Before on our FREE Daily Page), Race #10-Gold Clure $9.20

3/17/99: This was the final week at Gulfstream. Get ready for the Opening week of Hialeah, and the evacuation of the the top jockeys and trainers back to NY and other places. The local Florida Jockeys and Trainers, who are all stars and accomlished in thier own right will be facing each other and given a rest from the stiff competition from the vacationing North Easterners.

The final week at Gulfstream featured the $750 k Florida Derby on Saturday 3/13. On Friday 3/12, it was all Good and Tough $6.20 in the Deputy Minister Stks for Shane Sellers and F.A. Alexander. They defeated the entry of Western Borders and Mint in a time of 1:21 3/5 for 7 furlongs.

On Saturday 3/13, there were many stakes races to finish off the last weekend of racing at Gulfstream for the meeting. In the Swale Stks, it was jockey Jerry Bailey and Yes Its True $9.40 for D. Wayne Lukas. The Stick reminds you to watch Lukas, as he is a top trainer with many surprises in store for the up coming classics Yes It's True defeated heavy favorite Texas Glitter, and NY Bred hope Lucky Roberto in a time of 1:22 2/5 for 7 furlongs. In the Ft. Lauderdale stakes, it was again Jerry Bailey and Garbu $6.80 for his regular Trainer Bill Mott. Bailey one to watch, as he is one of the very best jockeys on the East Coast. Favorite Wildcat and Sharp Appeal finished 2nd and 3rd respectivly in a very fast time of 1:39 2/5 on the turf for the 1 1/16. In The Creme Fraiche HDCP, it was Jazz Club $11.00 for jockey Pat Day and trainer Neil Howard over Rock and Roll and Hanarsaan in a time of 1:42 3/5 for the 1 1/16 on the dirt.

The BIG RACE Saturday, was the Florida Derby, a Grade One $750,000 Race for 3 yr olds prepping for the Kentucky Derby, which will is always held the First Saturday in May. The Stick was not a big supporter of eventual winner Vicar $11.20 for Shane Sellers and Carl Nafzager. We felt the time in the Foutain of Youth was very slow and Vicar had that race all to himself on the front end. We did not feel he could repeat himself, but we were wrong. Favorite Cat Thief decided he would take the early lead under jockey Pat Day and try to steal this race in slow times. Vicar rated, pulled out in mid stretch and powered past Cat Thief. Wondertross closed well for 2nd and Cat Thief help for third. The time was again slow for this race as was the case in the Fountain of youth. 1:50 3/5 for the 1 1/8 on the dirt.

On Sunday 3/14 in the De La Rose HDCP, Lovers Knot $5.20 for the Red Hot Jerry Baily, and Trainer Christophe Clement defeated Pleasant Music and Zinfandoll in a time of 1:42 2/5 for the 1 1/16 on the turf.

The final day of the meeting at Gulf featured the Grade ONE(1) $250,000 Bonnie Miss Stks. Heavily Favored Three Ring $3.60 for the combination of Jockey John Velasquez and Trainer Ed Pleasa defeated Olympic Charmer and Marley Vale in a time of 1:43 3/5 for 1 1/16. *REMEMBER* Hialeah Opens Wed. 3/17.

3/10/99: On Wed. 3/3 Gulfstream saw the return of Belmont Stakes Winner Victory Gallop. He ran, and won the 3rd race, an allw event. Victory Gallop $2.60 was ridden by Jerry Bailey in 1:43 4/5 for 1 1/16 miles for trainer Elliot Walden. In Race #10, a minor stake, it was again JD Bailey and Pico Teneriffe(trained by top young trainer, and former D.Wayne Lukas assistant, Todd Pletcher) $4.00 in a time of 1:48 4/5 for 1 1/8 miles.

On Friday 3/5, a new name, Jocelyn Gomez, a regular on the Florida Circuit, got Cannon Whirl $62.60 home for a BIG score . A wave of The Stick for you in congratulations. The Triple in that race completed by Maddy's Smile, and Haley's Alright returned a nice $2,436.20.

In the 3rd race it was the return of outstanding NY Sprinter Kelly Kip. Under jockey Jean Luc Samyn, Kelly Kip returned $2.80 and won in a time of 1:09 3/5, a good return race. Also on 3/5 Jockey Rosemary Homiester showed she likes the Last race. She won on Wed. in the last race with Naughty Hex $21.40, and on Friday with Ashore $11.10. Good job rosemary, keep them coming in live.

On Saturday 3/6, we also saw a nice pattern for Jockey Jorge Chavez. Chop Chop won the 1st Race for FOUR(4) days, out of the 6 day race week at Gulfstream. his rundown, Wed. 3/3 Miss Kelly Pie $6.00, Friday 3/5 Canadian Flagship $7.60, Saturday 3/6 You're Too Much $16.00, and finally on the last day of the racing week, Mon.3/8 Premiere Festival $5.80. Good job Jorge ! go for the record number of wins in a meeting, you can do it !

Also on Saturday, the Stick's Inverted FREE Daily Selections of Unites Big Red and African Dancer came in. Under our Most Popular to Watch List of Jockey's, Mike Smith is back and in full battle mode. Unite's Big Red $13.20 is trained by Randy Mills.

On Sunday 3/7, Jose Santos showed us why he is a Jockey to watch on Turf. Those of us who followed an outstanding Yankee Affair in 1989 remember all those masterful turf rides by Jose. In Race #9, The Orchid HDCP Jose piloted Coretta $5.20 home for trainer Christophe clement, another top turf trainer. In Race #11, Jose brought home Tansit for a nice $69.20 score. Well done ! A Wave of the Stick for you as well.

3/01/99: OK TAKE YOUR TIME ! LOTS OF THINGS GOING ON IN FLORIDA !

First off, Jorge chavez cooled off this week, BUT Jockey John Velazquez got RED Hot ! Also, One of The Stick's Favorite Jockey's, Eibar Coa went ballistic on Wed, 2/24 with FIVE(5) BIG WIns* !

Starting off the week on Wed, 2/24, it was Eibar Coa Day at Gulfstream Park. His run down is as follows, and the race he just missed(4th) had a HUGE Payoff. Eibar's Winners are, Race #3-Picabo Silver $10.40, Race #5-Dance The Ballado $7.20, Race #6- Star Island $17.60, Race #8-Come on Louise $19.40(WOW), and Race #11-Starship Presence $11.20. A Big Wave of The Stick must go out to Eibar and a Job Very Well Done ! In the Race he just missed on, Eibar was aboard Forever Reality and he paid $58.00 to Place ! Winner Be a Leader, 3rd place finisher Copeland's Silver returned a monster Triple worth $13,360, as The Stick's Father would say in the old Aqueduct 2nd Floor Dinning Room, before Equistris existed, "That's the one to have a $5 ticket on !"

On 2/25, there was a very memorable and Historic moment, as Jockey Robbie Davis won the 4th race on Inevitably Private, for his 3,000th career victory ! Alright Robbie, way to go ! You are light years away from the past, keep going on strong. We Give a BIG Wave of The Stick for you ! Minor News...John Velazquez gets a THREE(3)Bagger, due to time constraints, we can't list them.

OH ! ALSO, Race #5, a $17,619 Triple of Lovey Lovey Lovey, Wrong Girl(she was right this time), and Gerry's Backdraft. Any of our Readers have that one ?

Finally on Sunday 2/28 "Chop Chop" Chavez brought home Beherens to win The Gulfstream Park Handicap. Good Job, go for the Record number of Wins Jorge ! Tell The World The Stick Told you to you were going to do it ! C'mon ! you can Do it ! Lets have some more multiple race win days !