Journey

For about a minute, Perfect Bull was on the lead. For about six furlongs, Red Dog Stables was living a dream. The longest shot in the field came within about thirty seconds of pandemonium. The excitement would crescendo within about a half-mile of the Road to the Roses. A fantastic journey.

Before the race, we experienced an impromptu heart-felt prayer, the good luck wishes that everyone soulfully praises upon a long shot, the obligatory high-fives, and a boisterous "Yeah! Red Dog!". During the race, a hall of fame jockey exclaimed with wonder "Wow, look at the 1!" Yet the colt was not up to the challenge that day. By the time the stretch run ensued, our jockey saved the effort for another day and contently galloped to the wire behind the field. After the race, we applauded the running and took home a memory to cherish.

It was a day for long shots, just not exactly our very own. The third and second longest shots in the field would finish second and third respectively. One thousand miles to the northwest, a 56-1 shot would win the $300,000 Grade II Rebel Stakes. That colt's name is Win Willy, who now boasts an impressive three wins from four starts and is squarely aiming for the First Saturday in May.

Trivia time: name the only colt to have won a race against Win Willy? Answer: Perfect Bull.