It has been said, where the girls are, the boys will follow. In 2009, the boys did follow. Because, that was all that they could do….

I was watching the Eclipse Awards, as many of you were. I was witness to history as two of the best gals to ever grace the game squared against the best the world had to offer, that is, except each other. But, 2010 may be a different tune if Jerry Moss makes this record.

Rachel Alexandra was voted the Horse of the Year for 2009.

Her owner Jess Jackson did not seem eloquent in his victory speech. He thanked Calvin Borel, which was a great move. He rambled on a bit about the dangers of a rider’s occupation. All of which we know, but he looked as if it didn’t have a purpose.

He didn’t speak the name of his Trainer of the Year – Steve Asmussen. Maybe it was nerves, maybe the moment was too big… Who knows, and I am sure we will hear more smoothed over versions in interviews to come.

Ann and Jerry Moss didn’t look happy for the winners. This is a ritual where rich people smile and clap with a heavy heart. They really didn’t. When interviewed, it felt as if Moss was talking up the next Seabiscuit – War Admiral. All with veiled hints of maybe it is time for them to meet.  I agree, but not to be talked about on this night. If mom would have been sitting at the table, they would have received a pinch for inappropriate dinner talk.

Overall, it was glorious. The winners that deserved the awards were crowned, in my opinion. The votes shown backed up the decisions. No questions asked, and no stones unturned.

I can’t wait for this year. Let’s get it on, as Marvin Gaye would say. I think we should start at Oaklawn, head to Gulfstream, and finish at Churchill Downs, where the Breeders’ Cup will be held….

Racing came back to life, and not a moment too soon… Just when we needed publicity, we got our wish… Now, let’s keep em dancing and have a clean fight…