It’s (Mostly) About the Ladies

Bickersons: because sometimes you don't have time to find an image of Christine Daae

Sure, the Sham is this weekend, but the real race of interest as far as 3-year-olds are concerned is the Davona Dale – who needs colts? Christine Daae, she of the recent bullet-work and considerable buzz (I’m still waiting to see her ‘distinctive markings‘ in a still), will face off against some formidable foes at Gulfstream Park, including champion She Be Wild and speedy Bickersons. Amen Hallelujah and Sassy Image are also strong competitors – it has the makings of a great race, and we can decide whether it’s an Oaks or Derby prep at some point in the future.

Las year’s Davona Dale winner, Justwhistledixie, returns to the scene of her former triumph for a shot at the Sabin Stakes. A good effort here could snag her an invitation to the Apple Blossom – she’s one of ten runners nominated so far, eight of whom will get the call to take on Rachel Alexandra and Zenaytta (and a big check for third, if both come – or perhaps fourth, if Bambera stays true to her Latin American form).

And as for the older guys, Presious Passion is at work in the Mac Diarmida stakes, also at Gulfstream. His goal is a start in the Dubai Sheema Classic next month. There is some potential competition from Winchester and Imawildandcrazyguy (remember him from the ’07 Triple Crown trail? I believe he has yet to win a race), but I have a soft spot for the Jimmy Jerkins-trained Thou Swell – who doesn’t like a horse named after a Rogers and Hart song?