What’s Going On ?

Just like the song, or maybe the words from a friend when they first greet you. We all like to know what’s going on in our world. – In the world of racing there are a few things happening that have me scratching my noggin. From time to time it’s a good thing to step back and take a look. As we approach the top of the stretch heading for the Derby, I find myself starring off into the distance asking the same question.

 

The Florida Derby

 

Bettors have waited for the showdown like it was a battle of heavyweights. Well, for many who like to wager on racing, it certainly holds the weight. – This Saturday has two undefeated colts squaring off in the 1 1 /8th event for a $1,000,000 on the line. Nyquist who is a perfect 6/6 and was voted the two-year-old champion in 2015 locks horns with Mohaymen who brings his perfect 5/5 record to the table. Most of racing’s talking heads are having a tough time remembering if this ever took place prior to the Derby, and going back in my noggin I can’t remember a time. These are the #1 and #2 horses on punters golden lists. – If you’re having any trouble getting that picture of what they could look like as they turn for home. Take a look at these:

 

 

 

Dale Romans

 

I can remember the Romans colors at Latonia Race Course / Turfway Park many moons ago. It was his father Jerry’s silks who always seemed to be around the finish line every time they hit the track. A hardworking blue-collar outfit, and what better place to learn the trade than from one of the guys who did it the right way ? – Dale took out his training license in 1987, and saddled his first winner from his first start at Turfway Park.  There have been plenty of miles since then and now, and Dale Romans has been the kind of trainer known for speaking his mind. – A wise man once told me ” if you have nothing to be ashamed of, you can say whatever you want.” – I guess those words hold truth no matter what era you hail. In his own words according to the Racing Post; “I’m ready for an adventure. I’m sick of what’s happened to the sport in the US. I’m a horseman and I think races should be won by the better horse and not something else.” – What is Mr. Romans telling us ? Is there something in the fraternity of trainers he sees and doesn’t approve of ? – I like the no-nonsense trainers who don’t give excuses and won’t make up a tale. Romans is putting his money where his mouth is and stated a case to the Hong Kong Racing Authority that he would love the opportunity to be the next “northern hemisphere” trainer to be considered for a license. – Racing in Hong Kong is regulated rigorously, and riders and trainers are under a “quarantine” of sorts keeping them away from the media and public before racing takes place.  There are no drugs, no betting by riders or trainers, and a strict policy with no second chances. The wagering on an average day blows away the Breeders’ Cup weekend in the States. – I guess he has said a great deal without going on too far. One of the good guys is ready to hit the road and he’ll gladly undergo the watchful eye of the HKRA. Just like the old saying about saying what you want can be used for doing what you want if you have nothing to hide. – If you’re making a wager or two this weekend and see a Romans horse take the track. I’ll bet you’ll be more inclined to think twice before dismissing his runners again.

 

There are three more big weekends of races to watch before the Kentucky Derby. You’ll have the Spiral, the Florida Derby, Wood Memorial, Blue Grass, Santa Anita Derby, and the Arkansas Derby. There are other races you’ll want to watch and wager, but these are the biggies before the big dance. You’ll start reading about the major contenders after April 16, and play close attention from that point forward. – Winning Ponies always has your back, and we’ll bring you stories, free selections, the Internet Radio Show, and free Kentucky Derby and Oaks replays. Best of all you’ll have the one-of-a-kind data that is proven and tested with the E-Z Win Forms. We want to make sure you are completely prepared, and make it easy by having all of these items in one convenient place. With over $2,502,667 in exotic payoffs to date, why would you look anywhere else ? – Best of luck from your friends at Winning Ponies !