Dear
Readers,
It’s
been awhile since I posted a blog entry, and there’s been a good reason. With
the success of my memoir, I’ve been caught up in the promotional aspects of having
an International award winning book.
Added to the demands of that
schedule, I’ve been enthusiastically writing a series of short stories, and I
hope to publish them as a collection before the end of the year. Needless to
say, time is running short.
Despite my hectic schedule, I’ve turned
on the races and followed my favorite runners over the months. This year’s
Breeder’s Cup was yet another extravaganza for the senses. My enthusiasm knew
no bounds as I sat entranced before the television.
Today, one of my favorite horses is
running in the G1 Hollywood Derby—California
Chrome. Reading the comments on line about the horse and his owners, I felt
compelled to add mine.
Overall I find it interesting,
though not surprising, that California Chrome's connections have decided to try him on
the turf. Why not? The horse of the year contest has become a contentious mess,
with rumors circulating that the personalities and reputations of owners and
trainers will be a determining factor in the voting. Geez, I hope that’s not
true.
Along with California Chrome's other three losses
since his thrilling Triple Crown campaign began, if he doesn’t win
today, horse of the year honors would be a huge surprise. However, if Chrome does
win today, he should be one of the favorites in the voting.
Horse of the year accolades or not, win
or lose today, no one can deny California Chrome was great for horseracing this
year. The excitement California Chrome engendered,
around the world, was monumental. And he reminded a whole lot of people that you don’t have to be a bazillionaire to get a good horse.
Take
care,
Shelley
Riley, Author of Casual Lies – A Triple Crown Adventure
www.shelleyriley.com
