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Horse Racing Nation's Prospect Watch: Upcoming Youngsters with Promise

2024-11-18

Horse racing enthusiasts, get ready to explore the world of up-and-coming horses with Horse Racing Nation's Prospect Watch. This comprehensive scan of all upcoming entries uncovers starters in the early stages of their careers who have made a significant impact at the auction or have siblings with graded-stakes wins. Fair Grounds opens its season this week, and the maiden special weight races are brimming with talented youngsters. Let's take a closer look at some of the notable entries.

Uncover the Next Generation of Horse Racing Stars

Friday at Fair Grounds

In Fair Grounds race 4, No. 1 Canal Street stands out. She is a Louisiana-bred daughter of McKinzie, with a dam named You Laughin. This filly is a half-sibling to the Dubai Golden Shaheen (G1) winner Zenden. Trained by Bret Calhoun for Martin Racing, Bob Gorsky, and Circustown Racing Stable, Axel Concepcion will be in the saddle for her six-furlong dirt debut.

Fair Grounds race 6 features No. 3 Natural Rights. A 2-year-old half-brother to Grade 2 winner Zeitlos, he is sired by Constitution and out of the Redoute's Choice mare Thyme for Roses. Like Zeitlos, Natural Rights is a homebred for Stonestreet Stable and is trained by Steve Asmussen. Jose Ortiz will pilot him in the 5 1/2-furlong turf maiden special weight race.

Sunday at Churchill Downs

Churchill Downs race 1 brings us Thorpedo Anna's half-brother, McAfee. After his winning debut under trainer Rick Dutrow, he is back in the entries for his second career start, moving up to a starter allowance. McAfee is sired by Cloud Computing and owned by Black Type Thoroughbreds.

Churchill Downs race 7 also has two noteworthy fillies making their debuts. Brown Sugar, a full sister to 2021 Preakness Stakes winner Rombauer, is sired by Twirling Candy and out of the mare Cashmere. Bred in Kentucky by John and Diane Fradkin, she was purchased for $400,000 at the OBS June sale and will be trained by Ignacio Correas with Luis Saez in the irons.

Pretty Sassy, a half-sister to 2023 Kentucky Oaks winner Pretty Mischievous, is sired by Medaglia d'Oro and out of the Tapit mare Pretty City Dancer. She is a homebred for Godolphin and will be trained by Brendan Walsh with Tyler Gaffalione aboard.

First-Time Starters

On various tracks across different days, there are several first-time starters vying for attention. For example, at FL 4 on 11/18, Dr. Barry, sired by Blame and with a dam named Mindy Gold, is set to make his debut. Another notable is Frannie’s Wish at RP 6 on 11/19, sired by Vino Rosso and out of Rosy Humor.

At CD 1 on 11/20, Bonita Song, sired by Cross Traffic and with a dam named Bonita Blonde, is a 2-year-old filly making her first start. And at PRX 7 on 11/20, Foil, sired by Street Sense and out of Elude, is also ready to begin his racing career.

Second-Time Starters

My Vino at ZIA 8 on 11/19 is a 2-year-old male making his second start, sired by Vino Rosso and with a dam named Specification. Cathcart at CD 10 on 11/21 is a 3-year-old filly with a sire of Quality Road and a dam named S S Pinafore.

Miss Rosie T at DED 8 on 11/21 is another second-time starter, a 2-year-old filly sired by Improbable and out of Dancing Alone.

Third-Time Starters

Lawyer Up Riley at CT 5 on 11/20 is a 3-year-old male making his third start, sired by Into Mischief and with a dam named Call Pat. Ice Cream Boat at AQU 1 on 11/21 is a 2-year-old filly with a sire of Outwork and a dam named Special Treat.

The 2024 Breeders’ Cup World Championships held at Del Mar from November 1 to 2 was a significant event in the world of horse racing. With the post-race test samples from contenders now cleared by the Horseracing Integrity & Welfare Unit, purse distribution has commenced smoothly. This marked the second year these championships were run under the full jurisdiction of the Horseracing Integrity & Safety Authority, which includes a comprehensive anti-doping and medication control program that took effect in May 2023 and is implemented and enforced by HIWU.

Under the New Anti-Doping Rules

Just as it was under Breeders’ Cup’s previous anti-doping and medication control rules before the HISA’s ADMC program came into play, medication is strictly prohibited within 48 hours of the 14 championship races and the undercard. This ensures a level playing field and maintains the integrity of the sport. All potential Breeders’ Cup competitors were also subjected to out-of-competition testing for banned substances leading up to the event, adding an extra layer of security. 1: The implementation of these strict anti-doping measures is crucial for the credibility of horse racing. It shows that the sport is committed to upholding the highest standards and protecting the well-being of the horses. By prohibiting medication within a specific time frame and conducting out-of-competition testing, the Horseracing Integrity & Safety Authority is taking significant steps to prevent doping and ensure fair competition. 2: These rules also serve as a deterrent to potential cheaters. Knowing that there are strict consequences for using banned substances, riders and trainers are more likely to abide by the rules. This helps to maintain the trust of fans and stakeholders in the sport and ensures that the winners are truly the best of the best.

The Impact on Purse Distribution

Now that the post-race test samples have been cleared, purse distribution has begun accordingly. This is a crucial aspect of the championships as it rewards the winners and participants for their performance. The cleared samples give confidence to the organizers and participants that the results are legitimate and not tainted by doping. 1: The proper distribution of purses is essential for the sustainability of the Breeders’ Cup World Championships. It attracts top horses and jockeys from around the world and ensures that the event remains a premier competition. The clearing of the test samples allows for a seamless transition to the purse distribution process, which is eagerly awaited by all involved. 2: The fact that purse distribution has begun indicates that the organizers have confidence in the integrity of the event. It also sends a message to the racing community that doping will not be tolerated and that fair play is the norm. This sets a good example for other horse racing events and helps to raise the overall standard of the sport.

The Role of HIWU

The Horseracing Integrity & Welfare Unit plays a vital role in ensuring the integrity of the Breeders’ Cup World Championships. Their work in clearing the post-race test samples and implementing the anti-doping and medication control program is essential for the success of the event. 1: HIWU’s efforts in conducting thorough testing and enforcing the rules help to maintain the reputation of horse racing. They work closely with the organizers and participants to ensure that everything is done in accordance with the regulations. Their expertise and dedication are crucial in detecting and preventing doping. 2: By having a dedicated unit like HIWU in place, the sport of horse racing can address any issues related to doping promptly and effectively. This gives confidence to the fans and stakeholders that the sport is being run in a fair and transparent manner. It also helps to protect the welfare of the horses and ensures their well-being.

The Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority takes great pride in announcing the infusion of fresh talent into its anti-doping and medication control standing committee. This move is set to fortify the authority's commitment to upholding the highest standards of integrity, safety, and welfare within the horse racing industry.

Enhancing the ADMC Standing Committee

Under the leadership of chairman Charles Scheeler, an independent director on HISA's Board, the ADMC standing committee now welcomes three new members. These additions bring a diverse range of expertise from different fields, including horse racing, veterinary medicine, and professional sports.

David Ingordo - An Industry Representative

David Ingordo, an industry representative, is a prominent racehorse owner and bloodstock agent. With a rich background, he has previously worked for renowned entities like Robert Frankel, Walmac International, and Juddmonte Farms. Currently, he is an integral part of Lane's End Farm, where he heads the bloodstock division Ingordo Bloodstock and actively manages Belladonna Racing. His extensive experience in managing racehorses and working at the racetrack provides deep industry insights that will be invaluable to the committee. He has also previously served on HISA's horsemen's advisory group, adding to his credibility and understanding of the industry.

David Sykes - A Global Veterinary Expert

David Sykes, another industry representative, is an Australian-based veterinarian with an esteemed reputation. He is a respected veterinary consultant with extensive international experience in horse racing. Currently, he serves as the head of anti-doping on the technical committee for the Jockey Club of Saudi Arabia and provides consulting services for Racing Victoria on the Melbourne Cup spring racing carnival equine welfare initiatives. His previous senior roles at the British Horseracing Authority and the Emirates Racing Authority have allowed him to play a crucial role in advancing safety and integrity standards across global racing jurisdictions. His expertise will be instrumental in ensuring the highest levels of welfare and compliance within the industry.

Jonathan Coyles - An Independent Force

Jonathan Coyles, an independent member of the committee, is the vice president of drug, health, and safety programs at Major League Baseball. In this role, he oversees the league's drug prevention and treatment programs, manages scientific and medical experts, and supports collective bargaining with the Players Association on health and safety issues. He also advises MLB clubs on legal, wellness, and anti-doping matters, bringing a unique perspective and a wealth of knowledge to the ADMC standing committee."These new members bring a much-needed boost to the ADMC standing committee, further strengthening our resolve to promote transparency, safety, and fair competition within horse racing," said Charles Scheeler, chair of the ADMC standing committee.As HISA welcomes these new members, the organization expresses its gratitude to Dr. Lynn Hovda, Barry Irwin, and Kathleen Stroia, who are completing their terms of service after years of dedicated work."We are truly thankful to Dr. Lynn Hovda, Barry Irwin, and Kathleen Stroia for their significant contributions to the ADMC standing committee," said Lisa Lazarus, CEO of HISA. "Their unwavering commitment and valuable insights have played a pivotal role in shaping the early years of the ADMC program, and their legacy will continue to have a lasting impact on the integrity and welfare of our sport."The full list of ADMC standing committee members can be accessed online.