Thank God it's not 'wine flu'

Okay, so clearly, you've had enough news on swine today.  Let's turn to the equine world.

The 135^th running of the Kentucky Derby is this Saturday, and while normally around this time I’m deciding if I’d rather have a mint julep or a bourbon brownie, this year I’m having a more difficult dilemma.  I don’t know who to bet on!   Let’s take a look at my contenders.

1.  Pioneer of the Nile – Garret Gomez

I’ve seen Gomez race this horse in person, and let me tell you, he’s quite a beautiful horse being ridden by the nation's leading jockey.  Tough to bet against him.

2.  I Want Revenge – Joe Talamo

For God’s sake,I could be this kid’s mother and I’ve got some sort of sick crush on this little man.  He’s only 19 and he’s a bit cocky, but I love him for putting snotty Aaron Gryder in his place on season one of Jockeys, plus I believe this horse is the favorite.  I'd love to see him win it just because he is so young and they tend to take him for granted.

3. Chocolate Candy – Mike Smith

I’m not Mike Smith’s greatest fan, but this horse is owned by Jenny Craig, of the diet food company, and the fact that she named her horse “Chocolate Candy” seems so inappropriately delicious, that I kind of hope it wins. 

4. Square Eddie – Corey Nakatani

For no other reason than Corey is a native of Covina, and he was the honorary grand marshal of our Christmas parade, and his father was a Japanese-American put in the internment camp AT Santa Anita where he would go on to learn racing.  Too much karma not to consider.

5. Papa Clem – Rafael Bejarano

Two reasons— I’ve got a student who calls me Trebs and I call her Clem—and Rafael Bejarano has been kicking some So Cal jockey ass this season!  He’s been a winner for me on every bet on his mount since December.

 What to do? I’m still holding out for the Pamplemousse getting the last spot, but after the scratch at the Santa Anita Derby, I’m not sure she’ll even be eligible.  It will be quite a race to watch on Saturday, though.  I'm looking forward to it.  And if you need one,  here's an official mint julep recipe for you.

 

Thoughts?