New Mexico state representative Candy Spence Ezzell recognized Mine That Bird as "New Mexico Horse of the Year for 2009." The memorial passed the state's House of Representatives Feb. 11 unanimously by a vote of 70-0.
Documentary filmmaker is putting finishing touches on 'Thoroughbred' which will debut on KET March 8.
Godolphin racing manager Simon Crisford said Monday that Regal Ransom and Desert Party are both scheduled to run in the Kentucky Derby (gr. I).
Trainer Jeff Mullins has been suspended seven days, beginning May 3, and fined $2,500 by the New York State Racing and Wagering Board for an incident in the Aqueduct security barn April 4. The stewards released the ruling April 19, following a telephone hearing with Mullins April 16.
Churchill Downs April 15 announced that multiple-award winner and country music superstar LeAnn Rimes will help the racetrack launch a new tradition when she performs the national anthem live as part of the ceremonies leading up to the 135th running of the Kentucky Derby Presented by Yum! Brands (gr. I) May 2.
Edward P. Evans' homebred Quality Road, winner of the Florida Derby (gr. I) and Fountain of Youth (gr. II), is the morning line favorite among 24 betting interests for the third and final pool of Churchill Downs' 2009 Kentucky Derby Future Wager, which opens four days of betting at racetracks and satellite wagering outlets April 2.
IEAH Stables announced March 30 the completion of its purchase of a half-interest in Gotham Stakes (gr. III) winner I Want Revenge from David Lanzman. Mike Iavarone, president of IEAH, said Jeff Mullins will continue to train the colt.
The solid gold trophy that will be presented to the owner of the Thoroughbred that wins the $2 million-guaranteed Kentucky Derby Presented by Yum! Brands (gr. I) May 2 is scheduled to arrive at Churchill Downs March 25 at 2 p.m. ET.
With the Kentucky Derby Presented by Yum! Brands (gr. I) just around the corner, Churchill Downs has announced that Nick Ferrara, also known as "RiNickulous," will be the new chief party officer of the 2009 Kentucky Derby infield.
