All right, race fans, we need to take a good long look at our neighbors to the north. Canada – and Woodbine in particular – do racing so right.
Having spent two days here, I’m hooked.
What started Saturday with amazing hospitality from the press box staff, continued with the “personal betting helpers” in the restaurants, and ended with an unbelievable rendition of the Queen’s Plate.
The 150th running of the Queen’s Plate – Canada’s version of the Kentucky Derby – was run at 1-1/4 mi. for $1,000,000. It is, however, not graded because it is restricted to Canadian-breds (I love that!).
Described as “the big goofy kid” by trainer Mark Frostad, Eye of the Leopard captured today’s running of the Queen’s Plate by taking command at the top of the stretch and holding off late charges from Mr. Foricus Two U and filly Milwaukee Appeal.
A lot will be made of the winner’s breeding, as it should be: he’s one of the most regally bred horses in training (just like my buddy Dunkirk). A son of leading stallion A. P. Indy, Eye of the Leopard is the first foal out of Eye of the Sphynx, the ’04 Woodbine Oaks and Champion Filly.
Frostad has said the plan for Eye of the Leopard is to continue on to the second jewel of the Canadian Triple Crown, the Prince of Wales over the dirt surface at Fort Erie. While he should handle the distance just fine, it would be the first time the colt would experience anything other than a synthetic surface under his hooves – and Frostad has said he will not train or run anywhere other than Woodbine in preparation for the next jewel.
Eye of the Leopard was the first favorite to win this event since Wando captured the Plate in 2003, and he’s seeking to become the first Canadian Triple Crown winner since the big chestnut.
There are few owners to root against in this sport, but the Sam-Son Farm dynasty is one to always always always root for. While the US is seeing some of the great farms sold or shuttered, it’s beyond refreshing to see the next generation of Sam-Son continue on the amazing history created by their forefathers.
I do have to give a big shout-out to the two fillies: Milwaukee Appeal and Tasty Temptation. Neither had the greatest of trips and came back so tough off just two weeks rest since running 1-2 in the Woodbine Oaks. Big things are in these horses’ future for sure and I’m really hopeful we see both (or at least one) at the Breeders’ Cup later this year.
Today saw the continuation of one of the sports most enduring legacies, with Eye of the Leopard taking the Queen’s Plate. And, for those who think lightning can strike twice, he’s got a full brother back at the farm!
