Bluegrass Rules

Tuesday kicks off the ten day Grand Circuit meet at The Red Mile. The industry's leaders come to Lexington in what could be described as an unofficial convention where the financial health of the industry will be determined as the yearling sales season begins in earnest with the Lexington Selected Yearling Sales. Will the sales show an increase in the averages, hold steady, or show a deep plunge? External factors like the economy will play a part in determining sale prices, but by seeing how the yearlings from sires of specific states do in relationship to others will indicate how insiders feel about the future of racing in the particular state. A relatively poor showing by sires in a particular state may result in the moving of a sire to a different state and if the sales prices are very low, some of our racing stars scheduled to head to the stallion barns may find their retirement beng delayed.

Of course, there is racing. Many of the racing's top stables and drivers will be making an appearance during the ten day grand circuit meet. The top horses will be trying to make their case for year end awards and add their names to the record books. Other horses whose seasons have not gone as planned will be racing to put a fast mark on their record; their performance at Lexington will determine if the owner keeps on going with them next year or if determined not to be stakes-caliber horses, entered into the winters sales to begin their overnight careers. One thing is certain, it will be another memorable season at The Red Mile.

Tuesday's action marks the start of The Bluegrass Series with the 2yo filly trotters taking to the track. In the first division, Tequila Slammer looks to assert herself after having a rough trip in the Peaceful Way at Mohawk. Behindclosedoors looks second best with her victory in the American National at Balmoral. Crown Laurel and Glide Power are two lightly raced fillies who should begin to shine.

In the second division, Bar Slide after a sharp win at Delaware in the Standardbred looks to assert herself with Glide By being able to pick up second place. In the Mean Time looks to overcome a bad post position and land a shares while Spicy Wings hopes to be on her best manner to pick up a piece.

The third division looks like an easy race for Costa Rica. Winner of the Peaceful Way Final last time at Mohawk, she should pick up her ninth victory of the year. Ultimate Cameron just got beat in the American National; second best. Boinga has been racing well, just always seems to be a step below these. Croquet Style has gait problems; has some ability just needs to mind her manners to show it.

The fourth and final division looks to be a jog for Cantab It All; looks much the best. Impressive Kemp finished second in her debut, seems to have ability. Cathywithac has ability, may land second with best effort. Southwind Samurai seems to have overcome her gait issues; tries open company this week.

Dean of PullthePocket writes an article about the recently held Adreneline Fest at Hiawatha Horse Park in Canada. Could something like this be done in the United States?