A look back at the champions of the breed
In Thoroughbred Racing certain horses naturally stand out more prominently than others and leave a lasting memory that never fades with time. I had the pleasure to watch on many occasions perhaps the greatest Canadian filly to grace the sport. Dance Smartly had it all. Great looks, a powerful pedigree, wonderful connections, and an air of class that just demanded
Read moreL’Alezane was a gorgeous chestnut filly with a flaxen mane and tail. She was purchased as a yearling by Jean-Louis Levesque from E.P Taylor’s consignment at the 1976 Saratoga sales. The price was a very respectable $101,000, and came back to Canada to be trained by John “Yonnie” Starr. Levesque appropriately named her L’Alezane which translates to “The Chestnut” in
Read moreThroughout the nineteen sixties and seventies Jean-Louis Levesque was one of the most successful owners/breeders in Canadian racing. He built his racing stable with astute purchases of yearlings bred by E.P. Taylor when he began his foray into racing. From many of the yearling fillies he purchased, Levesque bred them to first class stallions once they became broodmares. He campaigned
Read moreUndefeated horses hold a reverent mystique. The rarity of such an accomplishment provides a talking point for lively debate among thoroughbred fans. Triple Crown winners do likewise. Bahram was one of the very few to achieve ultimate status in both categories. As a matter of fact, Bahram was never seriously in danger of losing any of the nine races he
Read moreFort Erie Race Track is one of the more beautiful tracks in North America to watch and enjoy thoroughbred racing. The scenic setting as well as the pleasant and friendly people provides a charming atmosphere at the track which is located one mile from the Canada/US border. My wife and I brought our family last Tuesday to see the Prince
Read moreThere is a phenomenon of incredible proportion currently happening in racing. The Epsom and Irish Derbies of 2016 were won by the Aga Khan’s brilliant colt Harzand, who is sired by Epsom Derby winner Sea The Stars. The colts who finished second to Harzand, Idaho in the Irish Derby and U.S. Ranger in the Epsom Derby, are both sired by
Read moreIn the world of Thoroughbred racing there have been certain individuals who have been so remarkable that they are remembered with great affection and awe. Numbered Account was a champion on the track, a producer of grade one stakes winners, and is a very influential mare in the pedigrees of some of today’s champions. She was also one of the
Read moreHistorical legends in racing take on a mystical quality over time. Exterminator was foaled one hundred and one years ago and much has been written about his legend. He was from a bygone era when horses raced more frequently and for longer careers. There were many prestigious races that were longer in distance than today. Soundness was vital to the
Read moreIn the long history of the turf only one horse has ever been awarded as “Horse of the Year” five times. To achieve such an unparalleled milestone, a horse would have to be consistently dominant for over three times the average career length most acclaimed champions raced. The one horse to do this incredible feat was the mighty Kelso, American
Read moreSixty years young. I say that because I will be turning sixty this year. My favourite place in the world during these sixty years, my happy place so to speak, is Woodbine Racetrack in Toronto. This year Woodbine will turn sixty. Sixty years of world class racing, featuring world class horses at a world class facility. Woodbine was built by
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