Suffolk, July 13
The New England Turf Writers annual dinner was held Monday night and a slew of awards was given out to horses and jockeys. Megan’s Halo, winner of five straight races in 2003, was named the James B. Moseley Horse of the Year. Top rider Josiah Hampshire received the Eli Chiat jockey award (for the second? or third? time) and apprentice jockey Mark Phillips was honored for special achievement, along with the horses Amazing Thunder, Boston Fox, Call Me Mr. Vain, Diplomatical, Island Melody, and Jill’s Layup. It was reported to me this morning by an attendee that the prime rib at dinner was “not bad” and that the evening was “pleasant.” I’ll be sure to get tickets next year.
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In today’s races: Jockey Jill Jellison, who recently returned to riding after recovering from injuries sustained in an accident last winter, was dumped from her mount, Sugar Shaker, in race four when the horse stumbled coming out of the gate. Free of 123 lbs., the horse unofficially ran second.
A personal thrill: Miami Mike, trained by Mario DeStefano, whose barn I’ve been working in, won race seven (final odds 5.80, paid $13.60), which meant I went to the winner’s circle for the first time ever. The bite Miami Mike gave me during his bath this morning was forgiven in all the excitement of watching him run and win this afternoon. Nip away, Miami Mike! I’m looking forward to my next trip to the circle.
