Nicanor, the brother of Barbaro, entered the walking ring at Gulfstream Park yesterday to a mild round of applause from the people gathered around the area. Despite the runnings of the Grade 3 Holy Bull possibly the first legitimate step for east coast 3 year olds on the road to the Kentucky Derby, and the G1 Donn Handicap featuring Albertus Maximus and the great Einstein, it was this, as of yet unaccomplished 3 year old maiden that many in the crowd came to see. I make this judgement based on how short the betting lines were for the feature 9th race after Nicanor had done his thing. Funny thing is, I didn't even realize Barbaro's brother was running until the night before when someone had told me.
I thought Nicanor looked to be in good condition, as far as this born and bred city-boy can tell about horses. I heard some people remark about how small he was; however, he didn't strike me as being particularly undersized.
At the first showing of the morning line, I was surprised to see him at 4-5. However, by post time the odds had floated up to a still unrealistic 5-2.
Nicanor was well behaved in the walking ring and has obviously been schooled before this race and had an idea of what to expect. Nicanor was a little fractious in the post parade, but nothing to bad for a first trip in a real race, just enough to show that he is still a little green.
By now, I'm sure you know the story how the race went. Not totally unexpected for a first timer. Even Michael Matz said in a pre-race interview that he felt Nicanor would need a trip around the track before getting serious about winning (I am paraphrasing and interpreting here). I have found that, for big races where trainers are actually interviewed before the race, you can tell alot about a horses chances by how the trainer speaks of him before the race.
Nicanor had trouble at the gate, made a nice run down the backstretch to, at least, make contact with the lead pack and then faded to be 10 of 12. I think his baskstretch move showed he has some potential, but we'll have to wait and see if this is the return of Barbaro.
Here are some pictures from the event.
Walking to the Paddock
Entering the Walking Ring
Taking a few laps
Peeking from behind the palm tree
Post Parade
He at least looks the part.
At the finish line
Time to dismount
Look's good with that Wind-Blown hair
Back to the Barn
2 comments:
I'm always surprised when people say he looks so much like his brother. From all the photos I've seen, he looks NOTHING like his brother! He is a completely different build, much lighter and much less bone. OK, his FACE looks a little like Barbaro, and he's bay, but beyond that, I can see very little resemblance. Looks like that goes for his performance, as well.
I think its a little early to make a judgement on how good a race horse he'll turn out to be. He raced greenly on Saturday, but did flash a little speed before throwing it in. There's room for improvement.
On appearance, we are in total agreement. His resemblance to Barbaro is slight, at best.
Post a Comment