I Think She's Ready

2009 Horse Of The Year Rachel Alexandra has been taking nice and slow so far in 2010, as per owner Jess Jackson and trainer Steve Asmussen's wishes. Certainly can't argue with that course of action or with the two men who came up with it. They have proven that they know what they are doing. However, this morning Rachel seemed to say, "Enough is enough!", and plowed her way through a workout of five furlongs in 1:00.20 at the Fair Grounds. We are in the middle of Mardi Gras and I guess Rachel felt the time was right to announce her presence at the party.

By the way, she also galloped out six furlongs in 1:14.40. So, it would seem to me and, hopefully, most other observers, that Rachel is now ready to resume her racing schedule at Fair Grounds on March 13 in the New Orleans Ladies. Of course, after that is the looming spectacle that will be the Apple Blossom at Oaklawn Park on April 9 and her long-awaited run into history with 2009 Horse Of The Year runner-up, Zenyatta. According to www.drf.com, Rachel will have three more workouts prior to her first start in less than a month.

If the horse is this ready already, can you imagine the kind of shape she will be in come March 13? Asmussen is likely the best trainer in the land currently and it should come as no surprise to anyone that he has the horse rarin' to go, especially after what has been a six-month layoff. It is a rare year when something comes along early in that year to overshadow the Triple Crown and the trail that goes to it. Rachel Alexandra is on the verge of making 2010, like she did 2009, one of those years.

Tune in tomorrow for more from They Are Off. For right now, I am Gone... GOODBYE!