For the past three days, I’ve been trying to figure out what to write in this last blog. Usually, if I think long enough, the words will just pop into my head. But today, the only words I can think of are ‘thank’ and ‘you.’ For one last time, I just want to say thank you to all the people I’ve worked with over the last four years. Thank you for giving me a chance, for always being there to help out, and for making work a fun place to be. Thanks for letting me write the blog. For one last time, I also want to say goodbye to you guys – the readers of the Monmouth Park Blog. I hope that in some way Brad and I made the 2009 season a little more entertaining for you. Hopefully you’ve enjoyed reading it as much as I’ve enjoyed writing it. I guess I’ll just leave it at that. Thanks again to everyone. Best of luck in the future.
Brad Thomas’ Sunday Samplings
Pace and a suddenly revitalized inside portion of the dirt strip impacted many of Friday’s races at Monmouth and hindered some horses who could emerge as prime-time players in their next starts. Race 2 – Distance-bred firster Oh Diane raced wide, evenly, and gamely. She has a rhythmic, lengthy stride that’s all about two turns. Fellow debutante Landing My Way dropped well off the tepid pace early, but finished sharply once the light bulb switched on. Ed Plesa, her trainer, is at his best with experienced juveniles. Race 3 – Crusader Rabbit had pace and bias against him, but still gained good ground late. He’s cycling back to top form and new jockey Channing Hill is a perfect fit. Race 6 – Justin Rules had a troubled trip two-back in his return from a lengthy rest and had no pace help here behind two very strong foes for the condition. His style is ideally suited for the Meadowlands turf course – where he’ll likely next compete when 3rd-off-a-layoff. Race 8 – River Blades, a legit dirt talent, failed to handle grass in her initial try on that surface. Her speedy style should fit the Big M main track. Race 9 – Returnee Notecard was too close to very quick early fractions and only truly faltered in the final furlong. He’ll improve next out now that he has some foundation. Brian Skirka, my fellow blogger, soon will be leaving Monmouth Park for an exciting new job with the New York Racing Association. Brian combines a love of the complete racing game with great intelligence (He’s a Rutgers grad after all!), a tremendous work ethic, a wide range of talents, an unassuming manner, and, most importantly, a first-rate character. It has been my honor working with him. The future of racing is in very good hands!
