2009 in Review

Well since everyone from Andy Rooney to Entertainment Weekly does a year in review, I figured why not me?! So I'll start, logically enough, with January (bet you didn't see that coming). I'm only doing one calendar quarter per post..just because.

Hmm...I remember spending the first part of January being very happy that it wasn't still December, with all the snow that got dumped on us. Then it seemed like there was some work in there a bunch of days, and of course as much time as possible at the barn.

I did go to San Francisco for a work related Symposium. Not only was it productive, but there was open bar! January also marked the return of Lost! and 24, as well as American Idol. What can I say, I like to be entertained.

February..lets see...scratching my head here. Yup, I'd say February is pretty much a blank; work, ride, work, ride. I *did* barn sit so Teri and John could celebrate their anniversary with a trip across the border to Canada. Most memorable moment is hoping and praying that Otto will NOT let himself out of his stall and go a-wandering. Kiersten solved the issue w/a lock and key...note...do NOT leave key in lock for Otto.

Now March starts to finally get interesting. Its the month of my birthday of course, AND we got to send in entries for our first horse show of the year (which actually took place in April).

I'm sure there are some people out there who are wondering what exactly is being recapped here. To tell you the truth, year in year out, what I remember most are times spent with my family and friends, my precious, precious barn time, and of course my life's sound track.

5 Things I Think

1) Politics is a dirty business, and so are those involved in it. It doesn't matter what side of the aisle you are on - the bottom line is all about power. Power to make people do and say exactly what you like. Power corrupts, absolutely. And for those who insisted on seeing who signed a certain initiative here in WA state - how pitiful. Its like your vote - if you want to reveal how you voted - great. If you don't - it shouldn't be made public. One day this will come back and bite the folks who pressed for it in the a**; something they signed or did that should be confidential will be released, and I will laugh my a** off.

2) I miss Ireland. It was so easy to forget how obsessed with PC'ism the Seattle area is (people can't even laugh about something that's TRUE without someone getting up and huffing out of the room w/some bizarre sense of hurt). That's why no one talks to each other anymore - so worried that someone somewhere will take offense - even if whatever is said is absolutely true. The other thing I definitely did NOT miss is the Passive-Agressive (ism) that the Seattle area has turned into an art form. Say what you mean to say - back it up, and go to the matt for it.

3) I can't emphasize enough how much I am LOVING my New Orleans Saints. I have rooted for you (the team) all my life - and no matter what happens, this has been the most exciting 7 weeks in the NFL EVER for me!! Drew Brees for the Nobel Prize! He's at least as qualified as the last recipient. And given his work for the city post-Katrina - quite possibly more so.

4) I forgot just how good the Buffy the Vampire Slayer series was. Great characters, storylines, and all around entertaining. Just saw Zombieland this weekend - and enjoyed that too! I think those rules could apply to multiple situations...!

5) I want/need to carve out more horse time somehow...(don't I say that all the time?!)

Last Day in Ireland

Monday, 28-Sep
The sun certainly shown on my last day in Ireland. I was trying to decide what to do last night, and realized that my next trip here will most likely start in Wicklow. So we booked a day tour of the Wicklow area, including Glendalough (Valley of the 2 Lakes).

The driver's name was John, and as it turns out he owns a riding stable and livery in Kildare, which you may remember, is one of the areas I have narrowed down to my most desired living spots. I immediately offered him my services as barn manager, and we have in fact exchanged email addresses. Stay tuned!

The ride out takes you through Dublin; very urban, congested and, well, a city. You then travel through Enniskerry; more charming 'suburb' like and starting to get out towards the country. Finally you arrive in Glencree (Valley of My Heart), home of the Peace and Reconciliation Centre (hoping for peace between north and south) - housed in a former children's reformatory.

Then it was up into the Wicklow Mountains, which are wild and beautiful, covered with heather and mist, peat bog and sheep. Then it was on to Glendalough - St. Kevin's monastic settlement dating to the 10th century. Cemetaries, round towers, ruins galore - just my sort of place.

On to Avoca - a charming riverside town, and all too soon back to Dublin.

Those of you reading along may have noticed that I never mentioned the Book of Kells, Guiness brewery or St. Patricks (among other tourist destinations in Dublin). Its because I never saw them. I walked past Trinity every day I was in Dublin, and went past Guiness twice, and "saw" St. Patricks. But the truth of the matter is this; I wanted to spend my time seeing the country, talking to the people, not doing the tourist shuffle past these things. And I did exactly what I wanted to do.

I've made some wonderful friends on this trip; Derek and Gerarda, Helen, Niamh and Claire, John, Cyndi and Maureen. And I've truly fulfilled everything I set out to make this trip be for myself. I fell in love, and found my place and I can't wait to come back.

And they're off - -or a day at The Curragh

Sunday, 27-Sep
Today we headed out to The Curragh. It was about an hour bus ride from Dublin, back toward Kildare (home of the Irish National Stud). Today was Ireland's richest day of racing, with the Goff's Millions, and the Million Sprint, as well as 5 other group races like the Boodles Diamond Cup, etc. I bought a Racing Times for the bus ride and away we went.

It was overcast, but luckily not raining! As we arrived, the car park was filling up. Ladies in the most extraordinary outfits and hats were everywhere. Keep in mind - this is the home of the Irish Classic races, and playground for Sheikh Mahktum, and all that sort. Brown Thomas (their version sort of, of Neiman Marcus) sponsored the most stylish lady competition - and it was fierce.

But of course I came for the horses. As I practically sprinted over to the saddling enclosure, I was practically salivating. Lovely beautiful groomed to within an inch of their life horses! The first race was 30 horses going 6 furlings (3/4 mile). One the bus ride I had selected Irish Heartbeat, and now I was determined to go experience the bookmaker's stalls.

I wandered a bit, and finally made my choice. I talked to the man for a few minutes and finally settled for a 2 Euro wager. My horse ran 2nd and I cashed and was thrilled! They run strictly on grass here - Lynn was enchanted with the divot replacing crew. So exciting!

I also cashed on the 2nd race I selected, then decided it was time to go to the gift shop, and get a bite to eat and people watch! What a great day! The feature race had the top 4 finishers seperated by less than a horse length. There was a prize each race for best turned out horse (EVERYone who grooms should take note of this...!) All in all - a great great day.

The traffic jam getting out of the parking lot was not so great - 45 minutes just to get out. But finally made it home and trying to decide what to do with our last day in Dublin!

Back to Dublin

Saturday, 26-Sep
Today was a sad day indeed, it was goodbye to Arnold's Hotel and Dunfanaghy, and off to Dublin.

Before I detail our Dublin day, I do need to update from last night. Derek and Gerarda Arnold, the owners and operator's of Arnold's hosted drinks and dinner for us, Helen, Niamh and Clair last night. It was a wonderful evening of talking, and stories, and friendship. Derek told us how Helen came to be running the stables (for the last 12 years!). He also told the tale of Paddy Dan Rogers - the King of Tory Island. Yes - the Tory Island you may or may not be able to get to or from has its own king.

Back to Saturday. The McGinnley bus ride was uneventful other than the cows being herded across the road, and then up the other side.

We said goodbye to Maureen, Cyndi and Liane at the Dublin airport and continued on into the city. We caught a cab to our new Dublin residence - Staunton's on the Green. Its a beautiful old Georgian era townhouse - and the room is huge and backs onto a garden, with St. Stephen's Green directly across.

We dumped the luggage and went walking, ending up at the National Museum (archeology). Thank goodness we did, as it is closed Monday, and tomorrow we are going to the races! We say Neolithic, Bronze and Iron age Irish history and pieces, as well as the Bog Men. These are bodies ranging from 400BC to about 400AD found preserved in Irish bogs. Apparently the acidity, temperature and other conditions are perfect for preservation.

We are now back at our hotel for an early night (we were up at 6a) and some Strictly Come Dancing. Tomorrow we are off for Ireland's richest day of racing at The Curragh!

Tramore Gallops - last riding day

Friday, 25-Sep
Today was our last riding day, and it was gallops (oops! I mean "controlled canters") at Tramore.

Since we weren't actually riding until 2p, Lynn, Maureen, Cyndi and I went up to the Workhouse. Built in the early part of the 19th century, this was the last desperate stop for the poor and destitute. There was a strict regime, and people were put to work at things that did not compete with outside trade. Breakfast was oatmeal and buttermilk, supper was 3 lbs (!!) of potatos and buttermilk, dinner was more oatmeal and buttermilk. The only greens or meat protein they may have gotten would have been from the wild blackberries that are everywhere or fish. There was doctor's calls Tuesdays, and schooling for children. There was no smoking, drinking, gambling, or "illicit reading material". There was a very interesting audio presentation of a woman named Hannah Harrity - a woman who lived through the famine, virtual slavery, eventually finding her way to the workhouse. She was there for a time, then left and became a peddler, eventually dying at age 90. Very compelling place to visit.

Then it was time to change and mount up. We headed back into Horn Head forest, along some tracks, through the dunes, and onto Tramore. It is an incredibly long stretch of sand (you'll remember that we visited it on Wednesday) and there are incredible rock formations at either end. The waves roll in, and its pretty surreal. You can look up the cliffs above you, and see sheep looking down to hear what all the commotion is about. Incredible.

All too soon it was time to head back up the dunes, back through the forest, and home to the stables. Helen, Niamh and Claire will be having dinner with us tonight, and then it will be time to say goodbye.

Its been an incredible week - it lived up to, actually surpassed, all my expectations. I'm not ready to leave. I will never forget this week, and definitely plan to return.

Random thoughts: Wilky joined us for the whole ride, and since, as a dog, he was running up and down investigating everything, I figure he probably went 3 times as far as we did!

It is estimated we did about 15 miles yesterday. So I would say maybe the same or a bit further on Tuesday, maybe 6 Wednesday and maybe 4 today. So these rides are not for the faint of heart or unfit - that's for sure!

Voodoo has been a lovely companion this week, and I am so glad Helen trusted me with him. He's only 5, so still learning alot.

The McGinnley bus comes all to early at 7:30a Saturday morning. Boo!!

Marble Hill

Thursday, 24-Sep
Happy Arthur's Day - apparently at 17:59 (that's 5:59p for those not keeping time) we were all supposed to raise a pint of Guiness to celebrate 250 years of the stuff. That would have been great - except we were still out on horseback.

When we woke this morning, it was...what else? Raining. No matter - riders will ride! Today's adventure began at 11a, when we headed through the water, over the sand, up the dunes, along the road, up a few lanes and onto the sand at Marble Head. We had a good canter, then a good gallop (although there was someone out of control, and a calmer, more serene ponychick did not pull her off her horse and beat her with the stick - but 'nuff said about that here). Then along the dunes, and up the track a little ways were we paused for lunch.

When we pause for lunch on these long rides, there are chairs, a fold out table, the lunches the hotel has packed for us, and the horses get tied to a bush or tree with a bucket of grain, and plenty of grass available - so everyone gets to eat.

Niamh had to go back to teach, so Helen (her mother) took the mount on Rodney and we headed for the old railroad and famine trails. The going on the famine trail this time of year is very boggy. Ciual in fact lost a shoe, and Cindy had to take Clair's mount on Midnight, and poor Clair had to lead Ciual back to meet the truck and farrier, and then ride him home.

The old railroad tracks are really something, there are some areas that were pretty clearly blasted through the hills and the rocks walls rise up on either side of you. All the old ties and stakes are long gone, and its overgrown with grass. Great cantering on the clear grassy parts, with drops on either side of you going down 20-25 ft.

We alternated between clearing and blustery rain today - but whether you believe it or not, you DO get used to it. I'm starting to feel spoiled by heather covered hills, friendly sheep that baa as you walk by, lovely cows, and donkeys, undulating green hills, and looking to see if the top of Muckish is visible or covered by cloud. Surf breaking against the rocks, gallops on the beach, climbing through the dunes, and looking for Tory Island.

We rolled back into the stableyard about 6:15 tonight - a long day's ride. But, since I've long ago run out of superlatives - awesome! I actually stayed to brush Voodoo, gave him my lunch apple, and did some back lifts and stretches with him. I left him blanketed up and eating dinner.

Tomorrow is our last ride (boo!) and our fastest. We ride for 3 hours, heading out to Horn Head Forest and Tramore again - for fast gallops up and down the beach. Helen, Niamh and Clair will then eat dinner with us, and we head back to Dublin Saturday morning. I am going to be very sorry to go - this week has flown by and I am not ready to leave.

Notes:
I have been misspelling Niamh's name (hint: its not spelled Neve :-)
A peat fire is the best smelling fire there could possibly be...I don't know how much I can get in my suitcase however...and it looks alot like a brick of heroin...so it probably isn't a great idea.
They have fushia hedges here....its just like the fushias we spend a fortune for in hanging baskets, but they are everywhere here growing as hedges!
Saw what we think were 2 Golden Eagles hunting a field as we climbed over to Marble Hill.

Odds and Ends

Wednesday, 23-Sep 8:45pm
Note to self: do NOT begin history lesson of Ireland, including discussion of Molly Maguires, Sinn Fein, IRA, et al at dinner with eavesdroppers amongst the natives. I will be locking our door tonight...apparently it does lock; something I was unaware of and have not done to now.

We saw a golden eagle today - they were extinctified from Ireland, and have only recently been introduced from 1 eaglelet of Scottish nests that contained 2 or more.

Tory Island: its said that Ireland was once inhabited by giants, and Tory Island is where one of them lay down to sleep. He is still asleep there, and you actually can take a ferry there. The difficulty arrives in the getting back. Its a treacherous stretch of water - the worst around these parts. Getting there may work out for you - but don't plan on getting back at a specific time (or day!)

I think that may be it for my post-prandial rantings and ravings....for now.

Chills, Spills and Feral Ponys - Oh My!

Wednesday, 23-Sep
I should say right off that this ride was not for the faint of heart.....it featured very steep tracks, uncertain footing (to say the least!) but you were rewarded with spectacular views, and great beach gallops.

Today we started from Erorroey (sp?) and rode up country roads, forded a stream, and then followed some sheep tracks, or no tracks, up through the hills. Our companions were the sheep, and some feral ponys. There was a black stallion pony who watched us while protecting his band of mares and foals. A couple of the more curious young males came right through the fence and wandered in and out of our line of horses. They were adorable, but we were thankful the stallion stayed put as that could have been a different story altogether. I'd like to say I got pictures of that, but wasn't nimble or quick enough to control Voodoo and get the camera.

We then continued on up through the hills, through some fairly treacherous going. There are rabbit warrens everywhere, and if you can see the hole, you can be fairly certain there is a warren for a foot or 2 around it. Added to that, we are going up and down; some fairly gentle hills, some quite a bit steeper. So the horses pick their way slowly; your best course of action is to not interfere with the horse - his sense of self preservation is quite acute.

Roughly halfway between up and down, one of Ireland's famous rain squalls blew in off the water. These are short, but potent blasts of wind and rain. So we turned the horses rears to the wind, and stayed very still. To either side, or where you could maybe not see at all - were more rabbit warrens. So we waited for the storm to blow by before proceeding, about 15 minutes or so. Then the sun came out and it was back to brilliant blue sky.

We continued to pick our way down, and finally got to the back side of the dunes, where it was quite a steep track through sand down to Tramore (beach). This is a lean back, feet in the dashboard descent, most of the horses hopped and cantered the last bit as it was easier for them. Lynn's horse in fact, squealed, cantered down, promptly stopped, and lay down for a good roll...tack and Lynn and all. She chucked herself clear, and everyone ran around clucking and yelling at Cupid to get up. Again, I was too slow with camera - the picture would have been priceless. Lynn had sand in some unexpected places, but other than that everyone was OK.

Once we had regrouped, it was time for a gallop along the beach. No sooner did we get started then Maureen's helmet-cam came flying off. Stop, pick it up, stow it, regroup, and off for gallop re-do. We galloped along the beach, water to the left, and the largest natural dunes in Europe to our right. This is a protected area, accessible by horse or by foot. Absolutely beautiful.

Then up through the dunes again, winding along what looks like old sheep tracks, and then through Horn Head Forest. Finally came out on Kilahoey Strand (our home beach) and galloped back toward home. We were out from 11-3 today; it would have been shorter but the rabbit warren/rain squall hold put us out a bit later than planned.

A few words about our hotel: It is a charming, family owned hotel in Dunfanaghy. The carpet is a Scottish plaid - which sounds mad, unless you see it in its context. The lobby has all these lovely red stuffed chairs and couches, very comfy for sitting by the peat fire and reading the Irish Times. To the left is the restaraunt, which has had great food every night. To the right is the pub, 'nuff said! There are stairs in the center that go up to the rooms. The floors are bit uneven, and you wind around past some great old furniture pieces. Our room looks out at the water, which is just across the road. It is absolutely charming, and I can't recommend it highly enough; the people are wonderful, as is the food and atmosphere.

Tomorrow we go up Marble Head - another 5-6 hour ride. I'm trying to get a map so I can mark all the rides, we'll see.

Making Muckish..

Tuesday, 22-Sep
We had our hearty Irish breakfast this morning, and gathered in the stable yard at 11a. We were led off today by Neve, with Clair bringing up the rear.

The weather was sunny, with a bit of a breeze as we started off, and had a wade through the water, then a couple of long gallops along Kilahooey Strand.

Then across the road, and up past both holiday and farm houses. Lots of sheep and cows, and green land like you would not believe. Green like Seattle could be if all developers were penned up and torched so they couldn't keep building over it. But I digress....

Up up up, forever winding up, startling the sheep along the way. We passed a famine graveyard, with both the mass grave for those who were unknown to the area, and those named from the workhouse. We finally left behind the homesteaded portion, and were now riding along the famine track. Literally the track where the evicted and dispossesed travelled by horse or foot or pushing carts to try to get to family, or the coast to emigrate, or anywhere they thought they might find work or food. Ireland lost (depending on the accounting) somewhere between 2/3 and 3/4 of its population during the muliple famine times; to either death, or emigration.

As we neared Muckish, the only other living things we saw besides our own horses were the sheep dotting the hillsides. I don't know (or terribly care honestly) about plant life, but riding through the purple heather was an experience.

We broke for lunch near a Loch, and the horses got a good eat as well. The little car drove up the farm road(s) and brought camp chairs, a collapsable table, and our packed lunches from the hotel. That hot soup never tasted so good! We had a brief shower while we ate (of course!) and then we packed up and headed out again.

We now followed the old railroad track, but it was so muddy from Monday's downpour that we kept it to a safe walk. Lots of sheep, some cows and some lovely donkeys! were our company as we rode along the crest of a hill, and then down toward the sea, where we eventually left the horses to stay the night. The little car came with their blankets, food, and halters.

In all it was an extraordinary day. Not just for the scenary, but seeing history from the perspective NOT written by the winners.

Wednesday (tomorrow) we pick up the horses, and ride back toward Dunfanaghy.

Note: if any of you are following/interested in international politics - the Lisbon Treaty vote is HUGE news over here. Ireland + 2 other nations in the EU voted no the first time it was brought to a vote. Apparently it requires a 100% yes vote to pass. The second round, Ireland was the only hold out. So they are forcing a vote again. I don't pretend to completely understand it, their own EU minister said it was unreadable. It will be very interesting to see if they force Ireland to its knees to vote yes this time.

The Wind in the.....

Monday, 21-Sep-2009
On Monday, we were supposed to ride up Muckish Mountain. Instead, the ride was cancelled due to driving rain and gale force winds.

So, being the hardy group we are, we instead went to Glenveagh National Park. I should note here that there are 5 of us on the ride;
me, Lynn, Maureen- a public defender from Baltimore, Cindy - a drafter from Baltimore, and Liane - a mixed (small/large animal) vet from Northern Wisonson.

At any rate, a taxi (read mini bus) ride up to Glenveagh, which was built as a vanity project by Adair in the mid-1800's to go hunting and host parties. Its a lovely place, unfortunately, he evicted 255 people in 1851 - so the history isn't as pretty as the site. There are acres and acres of formal gardens, only several of which I walked (in the wind and driving rain!).

We went back to the visitor center to eat the box lunches the hotel packed for us - although we had to eat outside under cover as there was no where inside that we could. The woman at the visitor center was great, and queued up all the informational movies for us to watch while we got dry in their little theater.

Then, because we are gluttons for punishment, we went on a 3k hike (yes....in the wind and driving rain) hoping to see some of the red deer or fox. No such luck - they were much smarter than the humans.

Then it was back to Arnold's for a warm up whiskey, a visit to the stables, dinner and bed.

Weather today (Tues) looks sunny, less windy, though still a bit of a breeze....so we will give it a go. If we make up, we ride 5-6 hours up Muckish today, overnight the horses there, pick them up and head back tomorrow.

Having a wonderful time. The people are fantastic; I keep meeting great folks, and encouraging them to talk so I can listen to their lovely voices.

Dad would be pleased (as am I!) that food is easy here. Cheese (yum!), the home-made bread (double yum!) some of the best bacon, super fresh fish.....um...maybe Voodoo won't be so happy that food is good here for the humans. I better do more walking/riding before I get home to the Mighty!

More tomorrow!

Muckish Mountain - or Bust!

Monday, 21-Sep
Dear Mom, today we were to ride up Muckish Mountain, and overnight the horses there, to continue on tomorrow. Unfortunately - our plans were thwarted by National Weather Warnings for gale force winds and rain.
So, we have agreed to trade our 'off' day (which was to be Thurs) and ride from Tuesday on out. I am sad...and cursing the weather gods who are messing with me. Voodoo on the other hand is neighing with relief.

So, we are heading off to Glenveagh National Park which has a castle, the largest herd of red deer in Europe, and is supposed to be a lovely hike (rain and all). I'll have to let you know how that goes :-)

One further note: the food here in this tiny village has far surpassed anything (saving the sausage roll) I had in Dublin. Cheers!

Irish Trip Part III - or how Voodoo happens

Sunday, 20-Sep
Today (at last!) was riding day. My mount was to be a black Irish Draught x named Voodoo. The weather was clear - though a bit windy along the shore. There are 5 of us on the ride, an endurance rider who has 11 horses at home in Northern Wisconsin, 2 ladies who lease lesson horses at home in Maryland and ride 3x a week, Lynn and myself.
The stable yard is charming, with some old stone buildings, big stalls, and 34 horses total. We mounted up in the arena, trotted around a bit and headed out. We only rode for about 2.5 hours today, along the beach where we galloped, up some winding lanes past the original land owners (now abandoned) manor house, through some dunes, and back. It was grand, and the horses were fabulous! Dinner in a few, but wanted to share some observatons.

1) The daughter of the owner is Neve, and she and I talked for most of the ride. She is hilarious, and we had quite the chat. Her opinion on Elizabeth I (that golden 'bitch'!) gives you a whole 'nother perspective of that era in history!
2) Voodoo and I started out a bit rough when his feet flew out from under him on a trot down the beach, he was on his knees, I gave him his head, he got up and we continued on. I think that sealed the deal for Neve that I really could ride haha!
3) Neve has a little Jack Russel mix that is the mayor of Dunfanaghy. He goes around the village visiting, and everyone knows him. He thinks he owns the village!
4) Tomorrow we ride for 5-6 hours, up Muckish Mountain. Will probably rain, but c'est la vie.
5) Cork lost to Kerry in the GAA All Irish Championships. Ah well..off to raise a glass to those gallant lads from Cork for giving it their all today :-)

Hopefully more to come tomorrow!!

p.s. for those who are fans...we've gotten to watch Strictly Come Dancing - the BBC equivalent of Dancing With the Stars...review to follow!

Irish Trip Part Deux

Friday, 18-Sep
I decided to take the DART (Dublin Area Rapid Transit) out to see Malahide Castle. First I had to hit Starbucks...the right size coffee and a straw!

Malahide Castle was originally built in the 12th century by the Talbot originally granted the lands by Henry II. The Talbot family lived there for almost 800 years, adding on to the Norman tower, and only briefly displaced during the Cromwell era. The last Talbots was Milo, who died unexpectedly in 1973 without issue as they say, and his sister Rose, who sold the estate to the Irish National Parks Board in 1975 and retired to another family estate in Tasmania. She never married or reproduced, and died at age 93 in February of this year.

The castle grounds are huge, with footpaths through the park, and jogging trails, playgrounds, GAA and cricket fields. It was really cool, and worth the trip out. In fact, Malahide won an award for 'Tidy Town'.

Once back in Dublin, I realized that I may have severely underestimated my need for Euros, so tried to get more at the National Bank of Ireland, where I was essentially met with blank stares. What-ev. Dinner, an evening stroll, shopping, and on the way back to the hotel, overheard this exchange between a man and woman at the bus stop 'here we go...fighting in public again'. LOL!

Saturday, 19-Sep
Finally off to Dunfanaghy. Essentially a 5 hour bus ride from the SE to the NW of Ireland, with lots of beautiful scenary along the way. Brief rain squall in the middle, but sun upon arrival.

Dunfanaghy is just like any of the sleepy seaside tourist towns you've read about. 1 main street with a few shops. I of course, headed straight for the stables. I am currently scheduled to ride 'Voodoo', but have also been offered the ride on 'Big Trevor'. We'll find out tomorrow, when we ride for the first time.

I'm very excited to finally (!) get to ride...I am having severe horse withdrawals. One additional note: the all Irish Championship for GAA (Gaelic Athletic Association - Irish football) is Sunday - Kerry vs Cork. Its huge everywhere you go here, people and places in one set of colors or the other. I believe I am rooting for Cork...the red and white!

Now that I know we have net access here, I'll try to update daily.

MB

Irish Meanderings Part I

Tuesday, 15-Sep
Flew out this morning at 11a PST. Continental Airlines turned out to be a revelation. They served us food and 2 (Free!) movies on our way to Newark. I am a convert. 2 hr. layover in Newark, left at 9:25p EDT for another (uneventful) flight to Dublin. Your choice of 40 (!) movies, 2 (!) meals, and unfortunately, although an empty middle seat, our seats backed onto the exit row, so did not recline. No sleeping on this flight for sure.

Wednesday, 16-Sep
Arrive Dublin 9a local time after flight time of 7 hours (8 hour difference from Seattle..you do the math :-) After a totally hot Customs/Immigration agent stamped my passport (and informed me that they are 'givers here in Ireland' ) we were sprung free of the airport. A bit of a scramble trying to find the Paddy Wagon (free ride to the hotel) but were on our way. Our driver fancied himself quite the humorist, and made sure we knew he was from the North Side, as opposed to the (allegedly) snooty South Siders.

Checked into the Trinity Capital Hotel which looks a bit like a designer's vision of Alice in Wonderland on acid. Vivid colors, random statues of camels and gargolyes, giant red and purple chairs in the lobby - giant like a photographer's prop giant. Had a cup of coffee, put our stuff in the room, and then headed out.

Got tickets for the hop-on, hop-off Dublin bus tour to get oriented. Hopped off at Kilmanhaim Jail. Some really dark history here, if you know your Irish history at all, this is the (final) place before the executions post-1916 uprising, where Eamon De Valera was imprisoned twice, and more. It was dark, it was dank, it was cold. And I was very glad I went, as it really brought those eras of Irish history home for me.

Back on the bus, and jumped off at the Natural History museum. An interesting look at the clothing, and silver of varying periods. Back on the bus, where we headed back towards our hotel. Major accident between a bus and a LUAS (sort of a tram) that closed Connelly street for hours. We made it back in a round about way, and decided to grab a bite. I don't really recommend The Round Stone - the owner/manager was very charming and funny, but his 2 immigrant waitresses were awful. A similar observation will be made r.e. immigrants vs. Irish in day 2. Meanwhile, I downed 2 Kilkenney Lagers, and was ready for bed. At this point I had been up more than 36 hours straight, and made it to my bed and promptly passed out.

Thursday, 17-Sep
Off to the Irish National Stud in Kildare. I am very excited. We took the Bus Eireann out; about a 1.5 hour ride through city-outskirts (complete w/strip mall and industrial) to charming villages (my future home? of Naas, Johnstown, and Newbridge. Then into country, where you start seeing the farms, great commons with sheep all over, unfenced; each sheep has a color and/or symbol painted onto their shorn backs - presumably for identification. We saw one man coming back with his herding dog, and sheep regularly held up traffic to cross the road. Finally through Kildare town to the stud.

What a beautiful place. We say the stallions Verglas (gorgeous gray), Celtic Swing (sire of Breeder's Cup winner Six Perfections), and Invincible Spirit - unprepossessing individual who nonetheless commands a 60,000 € stud fee per breeding. We also saw mares and foals about to be weaned, the museum of the horse where the videos of Arkle winning at Cheltenham and several others. I would have stayed for days if possible, but we did eventually have to leave.
Made it back to Dublin, and had dinner at Oliver St. John Goggarty's. Now, having strolled Grafton Street, and pausing here, I've caught you up on my adventures so far. I have a date with a Jameson's in a few...tomorrow I may go to Malahide, or take the DART out to Howth.

Impressions of first 2 days: the Irish folks have all been wonderful, helpful when help was needed, friendly, and, fill in other positive adjectives here. The (few) immigrants we've dealt with (immigrant by virtue of their Jamaican, and Eastern Asian accents) have not been particularly pleasant, and in at least one case downright rude.
The countryside is beautiful, I'm only half kidding when I say I think I've found my home. Its green and lovely and horsey - without the twee uber-liberal nanny state sensibilities of the Seattle area.
Dublin is busy, crowded, and very much a mix of old and new. There will be a beautiful example of Georgian, or Victorian, or earlier architecture - right next to some hideous boxlike building. Temple Bar reminds me a bit of the left bank in Paris.
I may not have time before we head to Dunfanaghy to post, but will do my best to get caught up after.

Wow...what a run!

In more ways than one! Sunday I headed out to Emerald Downs for the Longacres Mile. I have a lot of really great memories of Mile Day at Longacres, both as a fan and as a groom, then ponygirl. Getting those ponies dressed up in the racing colors and braided etc was always fun, and definintely something we looked forward to!

Anyway - 2009 edition! Its like family reunion day almost - everyone comes up for the Mile. I saw Connie Roberts, Joe and Sally Steiner (Joe and I have quite a few win pictures together from back in the day - but none of us in street clothes LOL!), Bubba (now the color man), Selso, Martine, god..can't list everyone! And of course Lisa, Jessie and Kyrie. It was a packed house, I cashed way more than I lost (always a good thing) and the big race was a thriller..right down to the end with Assessment beating out Awesome Gem. Even watched the races at Del Mar - and saw Amir ride. He still looks as pretty as anyone out there, and better than most, on a horse. Thought he was going to nurse that 43-1 shot Romeo all the way, but got swallowed up at the 1/16th pole.

On to the After Party! Lots of fun, food, drink - Laffit Pincay Jr. still looks fantastic. So much fun. Then Las Marg with everyone -and well that's enough of that..haha..those who were there know, and those who weren't will probably find out from their friends...double hah! Thanks to PGFH2, Kyrie and Jessie - big hugs and much love to you guys!

Monday I rode the Mighty (sorta) and headed to work...where I toiled for all of like 2 hours before going to the Seahawk practice. So cool...sitting on the grass, facing the lake, football football football! Lofa Tatupu right there! Got lots of autographs after - the players were awesome about it - I thought Matt would swoon when Bumpus signed his jersey.

When I finally got home - it was check off and check out for the night. But man what a 2 day run!

Thunderbird, June 2009 West Coast Classic

Monday – June 22, 2009
We actually left for Thunderbird Show Park (in beautiful Langley, BC, Canada!) reasonably on time. If you knew us well, you’d understand that this was a significant accomplishment! On the trailer were Sudden Image (Cash), Finishing Touch (Toby), Sienna (Sissy) and of course…Oberon (The Mighty Puckstar). Carting along all of the horse’s gear and wardrobe were me – driving The Mighty’s rolling tack trunk (aka Honda CRV), Nancy and Emily Wollebeck driving a second horse trailer with the 4 equine star’s food and nutrition needs, as well as additional (!) tack trunks o’stuff, Phil (aka Pinky), Debbie and Tessa Hingston toting all of Tessa’s stuff, and Sid and Tiffany Odgers (not overloaded). We arrived at the show park uneventfully, unpacked, unloaded and set up, and took the horses on a trail walk to stretch their legs and look around. We tried to go to The Shark for dinner after checking into our hotel (which involved many trips to and from the parking lot and monopolization of the luggage carts), but got kicked out. Not for unruly behavior, but for minors. Soooo…off we go to Red Robin which managed to satisfy everyone’s appetite. Afterwards Tessa, Emily and Tiffany went to the hotel pool, I hit the gym (I know…what the??!) and then it was lights out.

Tuesday – June 23, 2009
Today is schooling day – otherwise known as The Day of Chaos and Mayhem. I ate a good breakfast at our Holiday Inn (hereafter known as Ho-Inn) and tucked a bagel in the bag for later. Teri certainly had a busy day – putting a training ride on each horse first and then riders up for a schooling round. The Mighty took it all in stride (haha…pun intended) and afterwards we went for a trail ride to cool out. I should add that he was a perfect gentleman by himself on the trail right up to the end when he got spooked and spun and tried to run back the way he came. Sigh…..we got turned around and finished our ride with a few giant stallion-like snorts. I should add here that Monday and Tuesday were beautiful days weather-wise, and yes, this will be significant later. Horses were bathed, wrapped and the schedule for Wednesday was consulted. Quote from Michelle: “What? I show tomorrow? I thought I didn’t show until Thursday. Umm..good thing someone told me.” We went back to the Ho-Inn and they were so nice and accommodating; they let us use the common breakfast room to spread out, order in pizza, and clean mountains of tack. David (Teri’s son) arrived and everyone hit the hay.

Wednesday – June 24, 2009
Dawned….wet…VERY wet. As in….you can see the rain in the photos quite clearly wet. As in….holy **** are we back in Monroe wet. Luckily Thunderbird has awesome all-weather footing and it drained and held up beautifully. Lynn Kingsley and Laurie Rosen-Ritt, 2 fellow barn-riders showed up for the day to lend support. Poor Lynn, the last time she came out to watch The Mighty was on flood-day at Monroe in April. Maybe she’d stay drier just reading the recaps. Teri actually did The Mighty in a couple of classes today, leaving with a 6th out of a large field of LARGES (haha..see how I did that..worked in another Pun?). I dressed and rode w/water dripping down my neck, in my face, well everywhere really. 2 jumping classes and then I bailed on the flat class (see my clever reference to flooding again heehee?). We took a 6th in each class. Hooray.

With the horses wrapped, blanketed and all snug in their stalls we repaired to the Ho-Inn for another evening of tack cleaning, this time with lasagna and pasta delivered! Our fellow barn-mate Jessica Gaylord arrived, and the girls and David promptly made plans to initiate Barn Wars I. Stealthy like Ninjas…well Ninjas who get caught skulking by horse trailers I guess…but TP, duct tape or baling twine? Tent, cart or sign? What does a Ninja say when they get caught? Jessica and I had every intention of going, but somehow slept through our wake-up knock (ahem!)

Thursday – June 25, 2009
Dawned…only marginally better than Wednesday. At least we could slow the pace of the ark-building. After another convenient (and complimentary!) hotel breakfast (and a stop at Starbucks!), we headed to the show park. It should be noted here that Jessica was spending her summer vacation hanging out and helping out at the horse show – in the rain. There was not a lot of showing going on today – 2 classes, no ribbons. I think with the weather everyone was actually relieved to be done at a reasonable hour. And of course then the rain stopped.

I must interject here, where I was when I heard the news about Michael Jackson. Since the rain stopped, and the sun came out, several of us (me, Jessica, Emily, Nancy, and Tessa) were sitting on the grass bank by the Grand Prix field watching some of the jumping classes. Yes..at that point it was dry enough to sit on the grass..go figure. Ned Coffin, the announcer gave the news over the sound system and it was actually a shock. I didn’t truly believe it until he started playing the Michael Jackson and Jackson5 catalog. Each song had us singing along, and sort of dancing along on the grass. Looking around at other folks – they were doing exactly the same thing. It made me think that, no matter what you thought of the man himself, he left us an incredible musical legacy – spanning time, generations, and place. And then about the time I was having this profound thought, Tuffy (Teri’s Jack Russel) decided to run out onto the Grand Prix field w/Jessica chasing him yelling “Tuffy Come Back Here!” We ended up having dinner at a place next to the hotel called simply “The Pub”. Now that name should be a giveaway, but the manager assured Carl (Emily’s father who also arrived on Tuesday) and I, in his Russian gangsta accent, that minors would certainly be allowed…on this side of the partition. Oh boy. Some execrable karaoke could be heard over in the bar area, so being responsible adults, we decided ‘why not’. I also took the opportunity to remind Carl that, as a lip-syncher, I was in good company with Whitney Houston and Britney Spears. Dinner was actually okay – although it was fairly clear the waitress was used to a more..ahem..masculine bar crowd.

Friday - June 26, 2009
At last, sun! And our busiest show day! 4 jumping classes and 2 flat classes. But this was definitely a hurry up and wait day as well. Tiffany and Cash showed earliest and got some good ribbons. I am honestly not going to remember the classes all that well, it’s sort of a blur – but that also means nothing went hideously wrong! I think we got away with a couple of 2nds, and a 3rd in jumping, and a 5th on the flat. A pretty good day I’d say. Emily and Tessa also got some good ribbons, and we took the horses on a trail ride to cool them out. By the time we finished taking care of them, it was after 8:30 – so we hit the A&W for some frosty root beer floats! Jessica and I were up late obsessively watching Michael Jackson videos.

Saturday – June 27, 2009
Up for another tasty breakfast, run to Starbucks, and off to the show park. Wraps off, stroll through the trails to stretch our legs, and settle in for another long wait until our classes. Tiffany rode very well, and I believe was Reserve Champion in one of her divisions. Finally it was our turn. We actually had an end fence in one of our Equitation classes that SOMEone looked at HARD..but we jumped it (together) anyway . We ended up Champion in that Equitation division and got a nice cooler, and Emily was reserve! Then we had a “Low” (read..warm-up) class and we got 5th in a field of 32 mixed pro and amateur riders. I don’t remember much about the flat class, other than that Emily, Tessa, and I worked well together to give each other space (especially Sis!) when passing and keeping an eye on each other. The jumping went well and we got another 2nd (I think). Horses walked, and wrapped and it was time for the party EVERYone waits for – the Duct Tape and Garbage Bag Fashion Show! Every costume or outfit must be made of duct tape and/or garbage bags. People are so creative. There were Island Girls, Gold-Digger, Surrey Road Block, Warsteiner beer folks, Wedding ball and chain, and the winners – The Simpsons! (you can see pictures in my Facebook TBird album or go to the TBird show park website). While the judges were deliberating, Emily scooped up Tessa and bodily carried her to the runway, where we joined in a big ol’ group Thriller dance en homage to Michael Jackson. Much hilarity as I tried to remember more of the dance (which of course came back to me much later..and after beer). Finally back to the hotel for one more night in of tack cleaning and pizza.

Sunday – June 28, 2009
Ugh, all packed back into The Mighty’s rolling tack trunk, breakfast and check out. You know the drill by now, show park, unwrap, walk, WAIT. Today is just 2 classes, the Hunter Classic and a Stakes Class (both for $$). For the Hunter Classic – you get to wear your formal tails if you have them (and I do!) I figured I just had to ride up to the level of my wardrobe.

The course was a little confusing – the first round was 10 fences. Usually there are 8 in a “normal” hunter class. But for a Classic you ride a first round, receive your score, top 10 are called back to ride a 2nd shortened round, scores are combined..winner announced. Horses should be bold, yet mannerly, formful and scopey over the fences and move at one steady pace all the way around. It’s the “artistic” class as I like to call it. Not sure how this happened – but right away, The Mighty and I got into “the zone”. I only really remember this happening twice before showing, once with Beau, and 3 years ago at the Evergreen Classic with The Mighty. It’s hard to explain, but everything slows down, and EVERYTHING goes exactly as you planned and you see everything miles before it happens and inside your head it goes ‘ding’ and you know. This first round was exactly like that, and I knew it and I didn’t care what the score was going to be. But – it was an 80 – which is a great score and miles better than anything we’ve gotten before. I could have gone home extremely happy on that! But hold up, I have to wait out the remaining first rounds, and then do round 2. And people keep telling you “you’re still on top, you’re still in the lead” arrggghh..no pressure! Finally we went in for our second round – 7 fences. And of course our opening fence was not particularly stylish..not a chip, not a launch – but nothing like the quality of the first round. So of course I got mad and rode the other 6 great. We ended up with a 77, but now we have to sweat it out. I was also disappointed in myself for letting my insane need to over-analyze each fence possibly wreck the class. Emily had a phenomenal round on Toby and got an 81! But combined with her first round score it wasn’t enough to pass us. Finally it was over and we had clung to the win by the hair on The Mighty’s chinny chin-chin. Woo Hoo – VICTORY GALLOP! I have always wanted one – and Ring Steward Susannah told me to go for it! Emily was 3rd and Tessa 5th – so I looked down the line and said ladies – prepare to gallop! The Mighty also added another cooler to his wardrobe with the win, along with a paycheck! The Stakes class seemed almost anti-climatic – we got 4th, and ended up Reserve Champion for that Hunter Division. So not a bad haul at all!

Time to pack ‘em up and move ‘em out. If you didn’t think my story was interesting before – how about if I tell you how I was stopped at the border for possibly being a tall African-American male? And how Jessica just followed me into the Border office because she thought that’s what you were supposed to do? After about 20 minutes – I think they realized that I really was just a short-ish white female, and let us go. Maybe they were just bored and looking for a diversion. But somewhere out there is another Michelle Brown (hard to believe, I know) who doesn’t look a thing like me.

Lots of action at this show; drama, rain, sun, ninja hits and barn wars 1, we set fire to a golf cart (totally accidentally I swear), got kicked out of one club, great placings for everyone, a Championship and Reserve Championship for the Mighty, including a victory gallop for us when we won the Hunter Classic.

Quick Hits:
NINJAS! Mount Up!
Early morning trail walks in the Forest Arden
“We’re together, but not like that, not that there’s anything wrong with that”
“I love you man. No really, I love you man, you’re my best friend..we should do this more often.”
First golf cart – no go, Second golf cart – FIRE! (accidentally, we didn’t MEAN to set it on fire), Third golf cart – SURVIVOR.
To the jump crew in the schooling ring on Tuesday – Head’s up she’s jumping that jump, Heads up, HEADS UP, MOVE!!!!
Ah the rain – following me around like my best friend
FINALLY got to watch SYTYCD!
Thinking Ned was making a sick joke about MJ and then realizing it was true
Michelle and Jessica do yoga on the Grand Prix bank
Pole dancing really can pay for horse shows – well maybe
The Mighty getting a round of applause from a TBird park maintenance person who watched him do his airs above the ground in turnout
Slow Starbucks and crazy psycho parking lot
“love you long time” – see…offering to move up in the jumping order will always make the Ring Steward your friend
Huge thanks to Nancy and Debbie for organizing dinner every night! And to Carl and Pinky for making me laugh every day! “Inside leg to outside rein!”
And naturally to Teri – what a ride (hee hee..couldn’t resist one last pun!)

So – as those who know me know I like to do..I have..ahem…rearranged a few lyrics from some MJ songs to sort of ‘capture’ if you will..the flavor of this show. Answer key to ‘real’ songs below.

1) He rocks in his paddock all day long, leaping and squealing and playing along. All the cutie mares up and down the street, love to see The Mighty do his Lipizzaner leap.

2) In the schooling ring, trainer’s gonna show you, how to ride a class, how to jump in, then out, add the two, listen to me that’s all you gotta do. A B C, simple as counting 1 2 3. Easy as Do Re Mi, A B C, 1 2 3, Mighty you and me!

3) Rythmatic, acrobatic, he’s a dynamite attraction. When he goes through the gate he comes alive, yeah he knows what he’s doin’, he’s super bad now. He’s geared to take the class, he’s a jump, jump, jump, jump jumpin’ machine!

4) Don’t blame it on the sunshine, don’t blame it on the rainy days, blame it on the boogie (man jump)! (Sissy’s stop)

5) You’ve been hit, you’ve been TP’d by, some smooth ninjas!

6) Do you remember the time, when we scored 80? I’ll always remember the time we won the Hunter Classic!

7) They’re out to get you, competitors closing in from every side. They will dispossess you, unless you go in that ring and ride. Now is the time, for you and I to get our act together. All through the round, we work it out as one and make the judge see…That we’re a thriller, killer pair. after watching our round no one else can compare – we’re thrillers, a killer pair!

8) As I turn up the collar on, my favorite hunt coat, I, see rains blowin’ pretty hard. I see other horses in the warm up ring, can’t hardly see a dang thing, who am I, nearly blind, pretending I can even see.



1) Rockin’ Robin
2) ABC
3) Dancin’ Machine
4) Blame it on the Boogie
5) Smooth Criminal
6) Remember the Time
7) Thriller
8) Man in the Mirror

Some other favorites to go back and re-listen to:

Got To Be There
Dirty Diana
You Are Not Alone
Billy Jean
Dangerous
Unbreakable
Leave Me Alone
Scream
Get Down on It
JAM
Bad
Don’t Stop Till You Get Enough
Human Nature
Wanna Be Startin’ Somthing
Pretty Young Thing (PYT)
Rock With You
The Way You Make Me Feel
Black or White
Enjoy Yourself
I Just Can’t Stop Loving You

Random Friday Thoughts

Random Thoughts for a Friday:

1) I'm currently reading "The Horse God Built: The Untold Story of Secretariat, the World's Greatest Racehorse" by Lawrence Scanlan. I collect horse racing literature - and have lots of items that are now out of print. This is still around, but makes for an interesting perspective on the Secretariat story. For one thing - it focuses more on Secretariat's groom Eddie (Shorty) Sweat. Having been a racehorse groom I can tell you that no one - NO ONE - pays attention to the men and women who are most responsible for getting these horses to the races. More to come on this interesting read as I finish it.

2) I'm continually puzzled and disappointed by people. I'm in line at a local retail establishment, and the associate asks to see the identification of the woman who has just handed over her credit card as payment. This self-absorbed, over-indulged, insecure woman proceeds to rant at the poor associate, practically flings her driver's license at her, then proceeds to bitch and gripe under her breath until receiving her bag and making her ungraceful exit. Frankly - I'm more upset when associates DON'T ask to see ID when presented with a Visa/MC. But that's beside the point - this is exactly the kind of woman I'd like to slap and tell to get over herself. But, she is also exactly the kind of woman men fall all over themselves for - and then complain about how high maintenance she is. See? Puzzling and disappointing.

3) I am getting very excited for the trip to Thunderbird Show Park for the West Coast Classic. I would like to think the Mighty is excited as well.

4) Just finished Season 3 of my Buffy the Vampire Slayer Start From the Very Beginning Marathon. Good times - and dang James Marsters is hot.

5) I cannot say how much I feel the call of the track. I miss it. I dream about it, literally. Its a precarious ledge I teeter on - one solid push and I'm lost. The Mighty has a large responsibility - he is what is keeping me somewhat grounded. Without him, I probably would be long gone.

Tough Week

I'm out of sorts today, with all kinds of things on my mind - its been a very tough week.

1) One of my first bosses, and someone who was really like a father figure/mentor/friend to me is in quite a bad way, and not expected to live much longer. Its funny how, at the time, you are living in such a silo, and don't realize how someone is influencing your life. Over the years since I worked for him, I have frequently found myself quoting him "people worry about the mice while the lions eat the cheese", and in many cases emulating him. He had faith that an 18 y.o. would make it to NoCA and be able to focus enough to actually work for him. While I wasn't always out of trouble, I can (in hindsight) see his firm hand keeping me, certainly not on the straight and narrow, but most definitely on track. I learned a lot of what I know about people, what to tolerate from them, horses, and so much more from he, and his wife. More about all of those years in a later blog.

2) The Mighty Puck Star is out of the Pacific Northwest Hunter Jumper show next week. He just isn't 100%, and call me crazy, but I'd rather scratch, get him right, and look forward to Thunderbird in Canada in June. Sucks to lose the money though.

3) I read an article the other day positing that children are ruder than every now-days. And that it is the parents who have created the situation by over-empowering their little darlings, and teaching them that nothing they do could possibly be wrong. Way to give your kids false self-esteem - instead of legitimately building it through accomplishment. Anyway, I am now, and shall thankfully remain, childless. Particularly avoiding the above kind of little monsters.

What I do know, is there is a whole generation of adults (and it shames me that I am *in* that generation, though thankfully not of their mindset) that take very little responsibility for their lives. They spend years and who knows how much money to tell their therapists how it's everyone else's fault but their own that their lives didn't turn out as planned, or they have mommy issues, or ...the list goes on. Come on you whiny piss-ants...at a certain point in your life you look at people around you, pick, choose and emulate the traits you most admire. YOU decide the person you will be. And if you have problems, suck it up and deal with them.

4) Here's another thing - why are people so afraid of failure? Its a great learning tool. Admit you effed up - move on. If people are going to judge you based on that - ditch them. Do you REALLY have time and space in your life to put up with those kind of people? I have sadly, seen too many people close to me let what other people think virtually run their life.

Derby and Horseshow next week

Well what a race! Mine That Bird got the perfect textbook ride from BooBoo Borail - Cajun homeboy showed 'em what riding is! I'm happy for all the connections. What class the trainer and owner showed Sunday morning after the Derby. They stood outside the Derby museum, where people were coming to see the newly dedicated Barbaro sculpture, and gave away each and every rose from the Derby wreath. They answered questions, posed for photos, signed autographs, and reminded fans that it really is all about the horse. There are a whole lot of folks who could learn a lesson there.

As for me and The Mighty - we are off to the Pacific NW Hunter/Jumper show next week. Cross your fingers for better weather than we are having in our area right now.

The NW (Seattle area specifically) sucks. Don't let anyone tell you it doesn't. If the weather doesn't get you, the politics, Green-Nazis, or the PC-Police will!

Thursday KY Derby Update 2009

Weather change, a late work - the latest:

I’d bet WPS on I Want Revenge only if you don’t mind playing a favorite. BUT apparently rain IS forecast for Derby Day – so, at a bit of a price, I’d bet WPS on Freisan Fire.

There are horses that have run on synthetic surfaces and never touched mud on race-day – so I would move down the following:
Pioneerof the Nile
Chocolate Candy
Hold Me Back

I move the following horses up:
Regal Ransom (tactical speed in the slop is always dangerous)
Freisan Fire (see Regal Ransom, also won LA Derby in slop)
Papa Clem (sharp final blow out this morning..ran 2nd to FF in LA Derby in slop)

For my exotics, I’d wheel the following (in order of preference):
Freisan Fire
Desert Party (now sort of rethinking this horse – as he did not gallop well over the track this morning)
Papa Clem (who I originally tossed, but have moved up based on track conditions)
I Want Revenge
Dunkirk
Regal Ransom

Kentucky Derby 2009 - Commentary and Analysis

Subject to revision right up to Saturday!

Right about the time I felt like I had a pace scenario, and the race played out in my head, along comes another crack, some sore shins, and a whole new race. The Derby is very competitive this year, with at least 10 truly quality horses. Trying to separate running styles, pedigree for distance, and how they’ve trained is a tough task (but one I love) – but throw in this synthetic vs. dirt track and it becomes more of a crap shoot than usual!

One more item of interest- it is entirely possible the best horse in America right now is not in the race. It is probable that the horse is not even male – but the filly Rachel Alexandra. She is a freak and a monster and a wrecking ball – and the boys better hope she doesn’t decide to take them on anytime soon.

On a fast track – you’ll have the usual cavalry charge up front with Join In the Dance, Regal Ransom, maybe General Quarters, Papa Clem, Freisan Fire, Flying Private and Musket Man. Second flight looks like Pioneerof the Nile, I Want Revenge, Desert Party, Chocolate Candy, Summer Bird, Atomic Rain, Nowhere to Hide, Mine That Bird and West Side Bernie. Content to bide their time in back will be Dunkirk ( a bit more in touch with the field than in Florida), Hold Me Back, Advice and Mr. Hot Stuff.

If they are going fast up front (i.e. Join In the Dance and Regal Ransom can’t slow the pace) then look for the second flighters to swallow them before they turn for home, and the stone closers to be on a roll. The stretch is impossibly long, so it will be the horses that find their final gear and get a clean run that finish 1-2-3.

Here’s how I rate them:

I’ll address the 2 major scratches up front.

Quality Road: regally bred, impressive winner of the Florida Derby in his last start, but afflicted with A.P. Indy and Unbridled’s Song hooves. A.P. Indy scratched the morning of the 1992 Derby, and went on to win the Peter Pan and Belmont that year. Unbridled’s Song ran in the Derby w/his quarter crack and was 5th to Grindstone in 1996. Quality Road came up w/a bit of blood after galloping Sunday at Belmont, and the connections have put the horse ahead of their Derby Dreams. Kudos to them, but we lost a nice horse who was a likely presser, and one of my original selections from the race.

Square Eddie: I confess I was partial to this horse since my ex’es video company filmed his comeback in a series of vignettes for YouTube. He ran a good race in the Coolmore Lexington, 3rd behind Advice (who went from last to 1st). His sore shins have cropped up again, and he will again be rested – possibly for the Preakness.

So, aside from those two, here are my notes from the past few months of prep races, and this week’s works. The number next to the horse indicates his post position after Wednesday morning’s draw.

Love Them:

10 - Regal Ransom: By Distorted Humor (you may remember Funny Cide) out of a Red Ransom mare. One of these years, and it will be soon, the Dubai Sheikhs will win the Derby. This horse ran off with the UAE Derby, upsetting his more heavily favored stablemate, Desert Party. Of the speed horses, he seems the quality. If any of these colts is going to pull a War Emblem (see Derby 2002) he could be it. Look for him to be in front, or if (non-contender) Join In The Dance guns it (as his trainer claims they will) – just in behind him. These 2 speedsters are right next to each other in the gate, so it will be interesting to see if RR lets the other go on a bit. IF there is a speed duel up front would set up very well for:

19 - Desert Party: By Street Cry (IRE) out of a Tabasco Cat mare. See first sentence in Regal Ransom’s paragraph. This had been the more highly regarded of the 2 colts, and he looked like he might get there in the UAE Derby, but (in my view after watching the tape) flattened out a bit at the end. He certainly seems to be enjoying Churchill Downs though. He was on the track Monday to work, hooked his work mate, blew by him, then, while galloping out, had West Side Bernie in his sights and put him away as well, all seemingly without turning a hair. With speed in front of him, he can sit to the rear of mid-pack and come running the last ¼. And a good thing too - speed is drawn inside him, he is going to be shuffled WAY back early…

15 - Dunkirk: By A.P. Indy out of an Unbridled’s Song mare. You really have to see his Florida Derby; though he ran 2nd that day to Quality Road, it was the most visually stunning move I’ve seen in a while – and it was only his 3rd lifetime start! He is very lightly raced, and it’s said that Derby winners need a foundation. The thing about the Derby is, every time a rule is written it gets broken. Do I think Dunkirk is talented enough to win this with so little experience? Well Big Brown did it a year ago (3 starts coming in). I think this is a very talented colt, and he’s going to reach deep in what will be a very stiff, though not impossible task. He arrived at Churchill today (Wed) and had his last real work at Palm Meadows Saturday.

16 - Pioneerof the Nile: Regally bred (Empire Maker out of a Lord at War (ARG) mare) and made to get the distance. Would love to sit right about where Desert Party should be and then pounce on that early speed. Worked in 1:01 for 5f Monday – but seemed to really glide over the ground. This last is significant, since his races have all come on synthetic surfaces, and Churchill is dirt. If you go by his works, and physical presence, he will be tough to deny. But I remain just a bit worried about making a switch from polytrack to dirt in his biggest race.

13 - I Want Revenge: By Stephen Got Even out of a Roy mare. He played bridesmaid to Pioneerof the Nile in CA on the synthetic surface. Then he went East, and hit the dirt. Won the Gotham, and then, in a Wood Memorial in which nothing seemed to go his way (broke dead last, wall of horses at the 1./4 pole) and still cruised home. Went a good ½ mile in :47 and 1/5. He’ll be ridden by Joe Talamo – if you watched “Jockeys” on Animal Planet earlier this year, you’ll be familiar with him. After watching his Wood Memorial – I think you can place this horse just about anywhere and get a piece of the action at the end. Ideally I think he’d like to be mid-pack; he is a bit more tightly wound than some others, so the 13 hole will force him to stand a bit in the gate – but good spot to break from.

Like Them:

5 - Hold Me Back: Class breeding (Giant’s Causeway out of an Unbridled’s Song mare) and connections (Bill Mott – trainer of Cigar), but needs to take a step forward and maybe lay a bit closer (i.e. not let the field get away from him). It’s possible – his last work was good, he collared his work mate, then went from a length in front to like 8 in front with barely a flick of the rider’s wrist. But – and like Pioneerof the Nile it’s a big one – this colt is unplaced in his lone dirt start (last year’s Remsen to Old Fashioned). Was he just a late maturing 2yo? Or is he a synthetic surface runner?

11 - Chocolate Candy: By Candy Ride (ARG) out of a Seattle Slew mare – bred for the distance for sure! Ran 2nd to Pioneerof the Nile in the Santa Anita Derby last out. Had his last work Monday and went 5f in :59 and change, galloping out the 6f in 1:12 and change. Seems to be handling the Churchill surface – but here again is another horse who has to make the move from synthetic tracks to dirt in the biggest race of his life.

6 - Freisan Fire: By A.P. Indy out of a Dehere mare. Beautiful final work here Monday (looped reins and still went in :57 and change) but I think the Louisiana Derby winner is just a notch below. Larry Jones is training him much the same as he did Hard Spun, who ran 2nd to Street Sense in 2007’s Derby. He comes in off a 7 week layoff, with a presser/stalker strategy. I just see him in mid-flight and tailing off to split the pack at the end. Look for him later in the year to get better. UNLESS it rains – then I would move this horse up into my top flight. His LA Derby came in the slop, and that kind of track always seems to move up a horse with good tactical speed like this colt.

3 - Mr. Hot Stuff: By Tiznow out of a Turkoman mare (and a full brother to Colonel John – 6th in the 2008 KY Derby). Another (like Dunkirk) who comes in with only 3 lifetime starts. Go watch his 3rd place Santa Anita Derby finish. If you like Pioneerof the Nile and/or Chocolate Candy – throw this horse into your mix. He ran a good race between 2 top rated colts, is regally bred, and finished well after finding nowhere to go inside the 1/8 pole. I think he’s probably an immature colt who will round into form – this is a tough task in front of him though.

Use To Fill Out The Exotics:

4 – Advice: By Chapel Royal out of a Hennessy mare. Went last to first in the Lexington, which was supposed to be Square Eddie’s final tune up for the Derby. SE ran 3rd that day – and with his late scratch this week I wonder just how good Advice’s Lexington was. One thing we know for sure – he will come from the clouds, so he may fill out a few exotics if a) there is speed rolling up front and b) he gets any kind of trip. Personally, I think there are horses who are better, will be closer, and will finish higher. Use in the exotics at your peril.

17 - Summer Bird: By Birdstone out of a Summer Squall mare. Broke his maiden, then ran 3rd in Papa Clem’s Arkansas Derby. He was last most of the way and closed to within ¾ of a length of Old Fashioned, who was beat only ½ length by Papa Clem. This horse worked 6f in 1:15 and change on 4/24 – maybe its because I like his breeding, or his close – but you might consider tossing him into your exotics.



Pretenders:
12 - General Quarters: By Sky Mesa out of an Unbridled’s Song mare. This would certainly be the feel good story of the year. The trainer/owner has one horse – General Quarters. Ran 5th in Tampa, then came back with a good win in the Bluegrass here at Keeneland. Last Derby work was 5f in 1:01 and change – very workmanlike but that’s what the trainer said he wanted. I’d love to see this horse win - but I think this is going to be the toughest crowd he’s every hooked, and he is going to be way too close up front to some quality speed. Toss.

7 - Papa Clem: By Smart Strike out of a Belong to Me mare; the upset winner of the Arkansas Derby had a 7f work Monday in 1:29 and change. Old school indeed – most trainers put speed in their horses (not necessarily something I agree with) so this move was refreshing. He ran 2nd to both Freisan Fire and Pioneerof the Nile in earlier starts. Has run on the lead before, but his AK Derby win came with him closing from 5th. Mid-flight, and backing out of it is how I see him running. Toss.

2 - Musket Man: By Yonaguska out of a Fortunate Prospect mare, he’s won his last 2 starts; the Illinois and Tampa Bay Derbies. But, I don’t think this horse wants more than 1 1/8, his works certainly have told me that – and I think he’s a nice horse, but up the track here. Toss.

20 - Flying Private: By 2001 Derby winner Fusaichi Pegasus out of an Unbridled mare –he has the pedigree. And D. Wayne Lukas certainly has turned up and won with other seemingly unlikely horses (Charismatic, Thunder Gulch, Grindstone). Ran 2nd 2 races ago to Hold Me Back in the Lane’s End, but a poor 5th last out in the Arkansas Derby to Papa Clem. Toss.

9 - Join In the Dance: By Sky Mesa out of a Devil’s Bag mare. Todd Pletcher (trainer) said they would gun for the lead. Most likely to try to either a) steal it on the front end ala War Emblem (everyone thought he was a 2nd rate speed horse too) or set it up for stablemate Dunkirk. Either way - toss.

1 - West Side Bernie: By Bernstein out of a Gilded Time mare. I think he’s overmatched here, and really a mile and 1/16 is probably the farthest he wants to go. Toss.

8 - Mine That Bird: By Birdstone (the horse that beat Smarty Jones in the 2004 Belmont) out of a Smart Strike mare. Up the track in the Breeder’s Cup Juvenile last year, and couldn’t win at Sunland Park (New Mexico). Toss.

14 - Atomic Rain: By Smart Strike out of a Cox’s Ridge mare. Last ran 4th to I Want Revenge in the Wood. He also ran 2nd to Old Fashioned (another Derby favorite out w/injury) in the Remsen. He seems like a nice, useful horse – for Grade III type stakes. Over-matched here – toss.

18 - Nowhere to Hide: By Vindication out of a Seeking the Gold mare. This colt got in with the scratch of Win Willy Wednesday morning. With only a maiden win to his credit, and basically getting his head jerked in each subsequent race, well I feel badly for this colt. Hard to build a competitive spirit when you keep looking at nicer horse’s rears all the time. Run them where they belong. Toss.

So, what does it all mean? I think I Want Revenge has everything I would look for in a winner (and only a couple of drawbacks): He moved up a lot by changing from synthetic to dirt, won his last 2 – in fact overcoming quite a bit to win his last race, came back with a great work this week, looks good physically. The drawbacks for me are that he is a pretty highly strung colt, and the Derby is definitely a test of mental composure as well as physical stamina. Also, I think Joe Talamo is extremely talented, but riding the favorite in the Derby is a huge amount of pressure for a 19yo. That said, unless he loses his mind in the paddock or post parade, and if he can get a relatively uneventful trip, I think he’s your winner.

Granted (and a bit surprisingly to me) I Want Revenge is the favorite. If you want me to give you an alternate winner at a bit more price – take a good look at Hold Me Back or Chocolate Candy - unless the move from synthetic to dirt scares you - then look again at Dunkirk or Freisan Fire.

But when push comes to shove, I have to chuck the horses that have done all their winning on synthetic – or at least relegate them to fill in my 2 and 3 spots. I think Pioneerof the Nile is a classy individual who may well run 2nd.

Dunkirk and Hold Me Back will both be flying late – it will come down to who gets a better trip.

If the track is fast, I think one of the Sheikh’s horses; Regal Ransom or Desert Party is 4th, Mr. Hot Stuff (watch for this horse later in the year when he is more mature!) and Summer Bird roll up for 5th, and the rest are all strung out somewhere behind that.

Spring Inaugural Horse Show - or Why I Have a Love/Hate Relationship with the NW

The Mighty and I have not shown since the September 2007 Finals (last fence, last class - debacle in the dirt!) So we decided to start out easy peasy with the 2'9 divisions at the Spring Inaugural in Monroe April 1-5.

Day 1 - Schooling Day March 31. It is windy, but the sun is out. Since I am the only one showing, shipping and set up is easy. Schooling even goes well - I can't believe it.

Day 2 - April Fool's Day (this should have been the tip off right here). It is raining, mostly a Seattle type rain, which essentially means you just get to be miserable and whiny about it. Trainer Teri is riding The Mighty today in 3 jumping classes and 1 flat class. I am not terribly sad that I am in my big barn coat and reasonably dry on the sidelines. A 3rd and a 5th and we get to go back to the barn to dry off.

Day 3 - No longer April Fool's Day - but if at all possible, more miserable. It is raining buckets, mixed with snow (which was sticking in some places). The "Great" NW my a**. Lynn braved the worst weather of the week to come out and watch! Kudos for being either tough or weather proof! Teri is riding in 2 classes today, and I have 1. Cold, wet, but he did well (I can't remember exactly the placings - my brain was a little water logged to tell you the truth). We are soaked, we are cranky; the humans anyway. The Mighty is enjoying the attention and treats.

Day 4 - What is that? My eyes hurt - I feel like a mole emerging from its hole. I'm uncertain, but I believe, it may be, sun? Whatever - like it won't rain while the sun shines here - its just that psycho. We have 4 jumping classes today. My mother and my visting aunt, as well as my friend Sherri venture out into the light to watch. I don't remember the first 2 placings, but then we had a 2nd and a win. I didn't know about the win until Teri came to tell me while The Mighty was having his bath, held by his good sport grandmother. (I am somewhat dangerous and unpredictable with a hose - so she really was being a good sport). Yes - it had warmed (!!) up enough by then to actually give the horse a bath. Anyway - what a shock to have her come out and tell me I won a class! NICE!! Mom and auntie took me to lunch (late lunch haha!) to celebrate.

Day 5 - More sun?! Where am I living? This can't be the NW? I must have been transported somewhere good to live. Wherever it is I have found myself, I have 2 jumping classes and 3 flat classes (yuck) today. So many friends came, it was amazing. The weather has now truly messed with my head because I think I had a 5th, a couple of 2nds, and a couple of 3rds. The most memorable moment came in a flat class when we were trying to make the final down transition from canter to walk, and The Mighty sort of gave me the equine equivalent of a big 'F-U' and my only-somewhat-subtle pulley rein halt finally worked. Wow...someone had an attitude!

Day 6 - I have surely died and moved to a better place - its sunny again. Last day of the show. Mom, Aunt, and sisters are there to see. 4 jumping classes today. In the first class, I decided to test drive the 'bold' approach ride. Technically it went okay, but the judge was not particularly enamored of that approach. Good learning for later. (8th in that class - that I DO remember). So back to trying to crawl through the rounds ("SLOWER MICHELLE SLOWER") . Geez, I think I'm going slow - clearly I need to think "crawl". Anyway, we ended up with a couple of 2nds and a 3rd...or maybe it was a couple of 3rds and a 2nd? Well, the bottom line is that we were Champion of the 2'9 Equitation Division. Even more truthfully - it was a 3 way tie since 3 of us (Theresa and Judi) took turns trading off the top 3 spots. Haha - first show of the year!

Quick Hits:
Teri deserves an awful lot of thanks for her patience with The Mighty and I over the last 18 months or so - talk about your work in progress. Even 2 weeks before the show, when we were having multiple stops and issues - she didn't lose faith in us.

Song of the show for us: Umbrella (Rhianna)...if you know the words it will make you laugh..but basically: "In the sunshine we'll shine together, told you I'll be here forever, said I'll always be a friend, took an oath, gonna stick it out till the end. But now that its raining more than ever, know that we'll still have each other, you can stand under my umbrella, ella, ella eh eh eh under my umbrella. Its raining, ooo baby its raining..." Haha...now you know why.

Much thanks for the love and support from: Mom, Dad, Nicole, Debbie, W.A., Sherri (even more than you know!) Brian, Jessica, Lynn, Jenni, Mary, Kim, my Phoenix Farm family, and of course Teri and John. Additional thanks to our amazing ring steward Amanda, my co-competitors Judi and Theresa, Meghan Pomeroy for her support, Arturo and Danny for keeping The Mighty well bedded and fed during the show.

Not sure who was more tired Sunday night, but I'll give the edge to The Mighty. Here's hoping we can do it all again (without the rain thank-you-very-much) in May!

5 Things I Think I Think

1) I think Bernard Madoff should have gotten a Public Defender; all the money his wife withdrew to pay for his legal defense, as well as the sums he put in his children's names should be confiscated.

2) I think I have Derby Fever already. Not that I have a favorite (yet)!

3) I think I would like to buy a case-pack of "How About a Nice Big Pack of Shut The Hell Up" gum to hand out at appropriate moments.

4) I think I can think for myself (check that - I KNOW I can think for myself), and don't need to abdicate that responsibility to anyone else.

5) I think spring and/or summer will never come to the Pacific NW - and if/when it does, it will last for all of a week (maybe 2).

Secretariat

So there are some moments that change your life. For some random reason, I just re-watched Secretariat's Belmont Stakes from June 1973 on YouTube.
This was the first horse race I ever remember seeing (not even live! on TV!) and I never forgot the feeling. I didn't understand everything the historic implications, I was just a kid. But it shaped many aspects of my life. Some girls grow out of their 'horse crazy' stage, I made mine my life.
After Secretariat, I finally saw my first live horse race - at Longacres racetrack out side of Seattle, WA. Talk about adding fuel to the fire. I didn't even care that these horses were not even in the same universe talent-wise, to me they were horses, they were racing, and that was enough.
Then came Seattle Slew, followed by Affirmed, Genuine Risk, Forego, John Henry, Zalataia, All Along, Miesque, Pebbles, Awad, Unbridled, Holy Bull, Cigar, Alysheba, and all the others I fell in love with.
I was lucky enough to meet some of them, either at the Kentucky Horse Park, or in my visits during a couple of heavenly days spent visiting breeding farms in Kentucky.
Closer to home, I had my own more modest favorites from days as a groom for Craig Roberts. Nell of the North, Native Policy, Welcome Ben, Mandatory, Dave's Reality, Agudo, Powerful Bid, Secret Stash, Warm Thoughts - another list that could go on and on.
Today, I mostly root from the stands, or at home. I spend my time riding my own horse, and showing in Adult Amateur Hunters.
Horses have pretty much shaped most of what I think and how I observe the world around me. I cannot imagine how black and empty my life would have been without them. And it started with a big red machine - Secretariat.

Thoughts on Hunters

I've thought about this for a long time, and, given the enormous opposition the idea would face, haven't considered posting about it. But what the hell.

Lets make the sport of Hunters transparent. The judges scorecards are posted at the end of each show day.
1) The judges need to feel safe enough to make their score sheets public. Therefore, there would be no protests based on the public posting of those sheets.
2) It would force judging to be consistent across the board. Currently - there is little to no accountability in judging hunter rounds. Making it public and transparent would change that.
3) Riders would actually have to educate themselves about how the round was judged (or their trainers would).

Lets test both the Champion and Reserve Champion of every Hunter division.
1) In horse racing, the top 2 (and in some places 3) finishers of EVERY race are tested, as well as some random tests. Its called accountability.
2) I don't want to hear about how much it would cost. I'd LOVE to feel like my USEF and USHJA dues were going to SOMETHING besides scholarships and programs for the already entitled.
3) First offense would be the proverbial slap on the wrist. Second offense drops the hammer. Make it serious and make it count.

Until changes like the above are made - this sport will continue to be perceived as biased, and for the priviledged few. If we really want to maintain any kind of horse community in this country, more people need to feel like horses and equestrian sports ARE a part of American life, and are somewhat attainable.

Stimulate This

Some stimulus package questions - because people need to stimulate their brains and actually ask some questions about this nonsense:
If 94% of homeowners are making their payments, why the hell are we bailing out the 6% who aren't? Catastrophic medical reasons might be an exception, but essentially, if you overextended yourself, why the hell are WE (and make no mistake - it is us taxpayers paying for it) bailing you out? Foreclosure is brutal and devastating - maybe lesson learned.
How about we focus on employment instead. Theoretically at least, if people are working, they have some disposable income with which to stimulate the economy. A friend of mine (thanks D-Mo) did the math, and if the 1 trillion dollars earmarked for job creation is divided by the number of jobs expected to be created; 6 million, that comes out to a cost of $166k per job. I'd like one of those please.
Why oh why the hell are we spending part of this great, fantastic ,brilliantly thought out stimulus package on the film industry? God knows, they have plenty of coin already if the Oscars and their self-congratulatory brou-ha-ha are any indication. Aside from the fact that they robbed Mickey Rourke this year, $10 to see one of their crappy recycled story line movies is just more insanity. Don't give me the crap about distribution and middle-men blah blah blah. Slash salaries down the line for every part, costs less = charge less.

Top 5, or, The Exceptions

Surely everyone knows this rule; you are given 5 exceptions of the hottest specimen of whichever gender you fancy. Torrid affairs with these people, no matter how short or long they last, are guilt free and automatically forgiven.
People may rotate in and out of your Top 5, depending. Some may lose that hotness factor, some may just get plain old weird, or, well who needs a reason?!
Some systems provide for a backup 5. I'm all for a backup, life is short, you must have a DH!
So, ta-da, here are my top 5, along with the reasoning (like I really need it!)

1. Johnny Depp: The Divine Mr. D. has occupied the top spot for so long, I may have to move him to Emeritus status. What's not to like? He can be a different character every day (although I may draw the line at Gilbert Grape - that might be a little too..too). But he's been in the top 5 since 21 Jump Street Days - so what can I say? PLUS...he's a southern boy (Kentucky - holla!) and we all know their mamas raise 'em right.
2. James Marsters: OK BTVS geeks - you should need no explanation. What woman wouldn't want eternal un-life with this gorgeous vamp? Six pack hell - he's got more like a 1/2 case.
3. David Boreanaz: Angel is right. I always sort of liked him, but re-watching BTVS from season 1 again reminded me just how HOT he is! Another vamp I would go through un-deadness with fo sho.
4. Jason Taylor: By far the hottest Washington Redskin, and quite possibly the hottest NFL'er on the planet. Tall, fit, an athlete...check, check and check. And football is my second favorite sport!
5. I've had a lot of shuffling in this spot - seems like its always changing. Former occupiers have been Matthew McConaughy (personal hygiene questionable), Owen Wilson (bonkers), Marc Dacascos (no reason), Jude Law (too much of a man whore even for me). All of that said, the current occupier of this spot is Keifer Sutherland. Maybe its because a new season of 24 is in full stride and he is totally a man. Or maybe its because I've always liked his seemingly rebellious nature. Well anyway who needs a reason?!

A Day in the Life of a Groom

I originally wrote this and posted to the @derby listserv in 1996. It remains, of the things I've written, one of my favorites.
________________________________________

Been there, did that for 8 years. Helped pay for me to go to school, and although it was the longest hours and lowest paid job of my sketchy 'career'....it was by far the most satisfying. It was hard to condense that much time into an article, and I know I left out a lot of details in the day-to-day routine.

You don't know my name, and you probably don't care. A lot of people think I am nothing more than a stall mucker. To others I am an unambitious loser who is content to do 'nothing more' than take care of racehorses. I am the person whose only contact with the public is to lead my horse over and back on raceday. My job is probably the least respected (by the public at any rate) least understood, and yet one of the most important in the game. I groom racehorses.
I get up at 4:30 or 5:00, (7 days a week, 52 weeks ayear) maybe a bit later if all my horses walk today. I need to be at the track, with my first tracker tacked when the track opens for training. I know every horse in my care better than some people know their own children. If one of them looks at me cross-eyed, or has a hair out of place, I know something is wrong. I know their eating habits, their stall habits, how they like to be 'woken up' in the morning, how they like to play, where they like to be brushed hardest, and where they like to be touched least. I know what frightens them, and what soothes them. I know how long they will sleep, and how they should look 24/7. I am mother, protector, first aid provider, chef, house keeper, and friend. Sometimes, tragically, I am the last soothing voice they will ever hear, and my tears are the last thing they will feel. They are not machines, they are living, breathing, incredible combinations of flesh and bone, that, while strong,are also delicate. I can ease their aches and calm their fears. Without me, the best training methods and the best riding in the world would not be enough.
I might live in the barn in a tackroom, and depending on the track, those tack rooms can range from not bad to downright squalid. I have lived off-track, but found it better to be near my horses in case of an emergency at any time of the day or night. My room probably has a single bed, a tv, and a portable closet. It is very moveable, because when this meet is over, I will go with the trainer and 'my' horses to the next track. My tackroom may not be the Trump Towers, but its home.
First thing in the morning, I will put her halter on and tie her in the stall. Off come the wraps, down with the hay net and out with the tubs. Feed and water tubs to be scrubbed clean, hay net to be re-filled. Take her temp, check the chart for todays training, get the tack if she gallops or works, the pony shank if she ponies. Check the legs now that the wraps have been off for a while. If there is anything out of the ordinary, anywhere, talk to whoever checks in first, the trainer or the vet. Our vet checks by every morning to make sure everyone is OK. If all's well, pick her feet, comb out the mane and tail, rubber glove her to get dirt and loose hair to the surface (and gives a good body massage) brush her, then rub with the rag (another good massage). Polos on, bellboots if she's ponying. If she's working, she might go in front vet wrap, and/or back run down bandages. Or maybe not, it depends on the horse, and you know what equipment every one of your horses goes in for every form of training/racing. If she's working, I will probably take her out of the stall and hand walk her a little to loosen her up, and when the rider arrives, I'll leg him up and walk them to the track. With any luck, I will get to see her work, and make it back to the barn to get a bucket of warm soapy water, some body brace and cold water bandages for her. I'll bath her, making sure I don't miss any spots, rinse and then body brace her. On with the cold waters, blanket and walk. Gotta do the stall. After morning training, I will go through and feed all my horses. Then, before they nap, I will repeat the grooming steps, and take care of feet and legs. I have four horses in my care.
On race day, I will put a muzzle on her after breakfast. I will probably sit with her all day. About an hour before our 20 minute call to the receiving barn, I will again tie her to the back of the stall, and repeat all grooming steps. I will probably put a light fly sheet on her. Any bandages that need to be run will be put on now. I make sure her racing bridle is clean, and in good condition. I check the blinkers the same way. I make sure we have the tongue tie and chamois if needed. Got my paddock boots, bridled up and we're ready for the walk over. People make me a little nervous. They follow me around the frontside after riders up, and I have turned her over to the pony girl for post parade. I tell them that if I knew who all the winners were, I sure as heck wouldn't be here...I'd be sailing my yacht around theMediterranean. This pisses some people off. But my focus is my horse. I may or may not make any bets, usually not because I don't want to jinx her. Did I forget to tell you that grooms are a very superstitious lot? I just want her to run good, and come back to the barn sound. If (when?!) she wins, Iwill pose her in the winner's circle for the picture. Then its off to the test barn, and then home...where the bathing, grooming and leg/foot work is repeated again.
They don't race every day, and on those days I might be free to do other things, like laundry, or maybe something off-track...maybe.I usually like to hang out with fellow grooms, or other racetrackers. We understand each other, and others, well, no matter how you try to explain it, most others don't get it. Some do. But at least with racing compatriots, we have pretty much the same hours, and same interests, and know the same people,and can entertain each other for hours playing 'do you know' and 'do you remember' and 'whatever happened to' games. Off-track relationships (other than with family) don't usually last too long, or at least, not without an exceptional amount of effort, and I've got too much to do.
I have cared for cheap claimers and multiple stakes winners, and loved them both. I have learned a lot from them, I know what heart is (and it can't be defined with mere words), dignity, guts and determination, and tragedy. I know what it is to take care of something so strong and yet so utterly dependant on you for everything, and be rewarded 1,000 times over. I have loved them, lost them, been frustrated by them, bit, kicked, nuzzled and comforted by them. Caring for them not only paid for an education, it provided one for me. I learned a lot about not just horses, but human nature as well. I know how decent people can be, and how mean and petty.
I wouldn't trade one minute of it. I was a racehorse groom.