Random Saturday Musings

I'm up early today (although I don't even have to do a Breakfast at Arlington), so I thought I'd pass along some random thoughts on what should be a sunny Saturday for racing here in Chicago. I'm still new to "blogging" so thanks to all of you who have written in and have added your thoughts. Although it's even better to chat with you in person whether that's near the food court or in the neighborhood or even at Breakfast at AP (excuse me if I'm running for food but Levy closes down shop fast so be sure to get your eggs and bacon by 9.30).

While we have 11 races on tap at AP, I'll also be keeping my eye on the stakes laden card at Churchill Downs. I'm sure you are like me and eager to see Horse of the Year Curlin run in the Grade I Stephen Foster Handicap. With the Triple Crown Brown out behind us, we can now watch to see if this four year old can live up to his 128 pound impost and land his first win since the Dubai World Cup on March 29. Under Robby Albarado, the son of Smart Strike is riding the crest of a four race win streak (three Grade I's and one Jaguar Trophy, no doubt worth many Dirhams too). Among his rivals, the Helen Pitts-trained Einstein (a turf favorite of mine), who gets back on the dirt and picks up Leparoux (with Robby on the champ).

Also on the Churchill undercard, the Native Dancer Stakes for three year olds. For those Pyro fans (J.P. and I are still on his side), we're hoping he brings his "A" game today. He will be facing a field that includes Illinois Derby winner Recapturetheglory, who looked sharp in a four furlong polytrack workout between races at Arlington (worked in :46, final 1/4 :22). But "Pyromaniacs" still keeping their faith in this obviously talented colt.

Back here at home, a stake-less Saturday filled with a heavy dose of one turn poly miles. Although in what should be a competitive turf headliner (race 7), Tiganello comes back off the layoff for the Todd Pletcher stable. The seven-year-old will be seeking his first win since the Mister Gus Stakes here last summer. He had been chasing stakes foes for most of last season and surely has the back class to handle these if ready off the bench. Rene Douglas, coming off yet another multiple win day on Friday, is back on board.

As a history buff and politics fan, I have to say it's sad to learn of the death of Tim Russert, NBC News Washington Bureau Chief and Moderator of Meet The Press. On Sunday mornings here and at Fair Grounds, while marking up my track program with colors and notes preparing for racing, I'd often tune into Meet The Press. Always well prepared for his guests, Tim was the longest serving host in its history and will be missed.

I do hope all of you will have a chance to join us for Father's Day racing on Sunday. And one of my favorite days of racing is coming up next weekend. It's Prairie State Festival Day. If history holds, we should have full fields and exciting racing as the Illinois-breds have their moment to shine! Always keep your eye on horses trained by Chris Block, who seems to target this day every year with his well managed stock.

So have you wagered on the Super Hi 5 yet? It's been featuring some nice carryovers and payoffs (if you correctly select the first five finishers). And here comes Wednesday racing (post time 1.20 central). See you at the races!