Tomorrow starts the first full week of racing; 6 days a week for 6 weeks. Some say it\'s too many dates, some traditionalist insist that Saratoga is 24 days in August. It is was it is in our ever changing world.
Many ask what is the highlight of the racing season; the Travers, the Whitney Ball, the Hopeful where we hope to see next years Derby winner. No on all accounts.
All of the above are old traditions that most equate with the Spa.
A new annual event has developed on Diana/Jim Dandy weekend when Richiebee, Jimbo and TGAB take the town by storm. It\'s rapidly approaching Derby week as my favorite week of the year. I\'m sure were do for a Michael D. visit this week as well, I\'m shocked we didn\'t see you on opening weekend. Rocky will wander down from CT and other assorted degenerates will all be flocking to the patio of the Carolina BBQ. It\'s becoming a cult like ritual with TGAB seemingly taking the brunt of the good natured abuse and banter. Fear not Alan as TGJB did not set the bar very high last weekend.
I\'m very much looking forward to it and Richiebee has been texting more than my wife makes lists for me. I just received a message from banditbeau today that he will be up next week from Minnesota for his annual pilgrimage.
So tomorrow will bring my 4th trip to the track to redeem my blunders after a promising start. We had the perfect storm yesterday getting the races in and then a night of storms and steady well needed rain. Wednesday will be a perfect day, Thursday a complete washout with some lingering storms into Friday affecting Friday\'s turf races for sure even if it clears out. Saturday and Sunday look good.
The beer will be cold, the tasty Carolina BBQ hot, the ball busting will be off the charts and the pick 4 boy\'s are all way over due to crush one with 4 zero\'s in it.
Good luck,
Frank D.