Some Notes and Thoughts

• Inconsistency, Thy Name is New Secret: New Secret our 2014 Auction purchase has had more ups and downs than I know what to do with. In her last 5 starts she's raced at 8.5 furlongs on fast dirt. Her times have varied from 1:40.85 to 1:44.82 - a near 4 second variance. I'm not sure what to do with her. She was purchased as a breeding prospect, but with her inconsistency I'm not sure if she'll find a place in the breeding shed. She's scheduled to race next weekend, but with limited stall space, she may be shipped out if things don't improve. 
• Future Broodmares: Seduction and Serephina (aged 6 and 5) have solidified their positions as future Hopeful Farm broodmares. Seduction a World Record holder at 6.5 furlongs will retire at the end of this season and is likely to see Handsome Man or Perfection. Serephina is a solid distance racer who will run on all surfaces. If she keeps up her form, she'll race in 2016 before retiring at 6 years old. 
• Future at Hopeful Farm - Unclear: Miss Congeniality and Kay's Heir need to show some drastic improvement or they run the risk of being sold. Both should be at, or close to, their peaks. The time for excuses is running out. 
• Some Real Improvements: Change of Heart was on the chopping block a few weeks ago. But then she pulled off a stellar win as the 3/5 favorite in the Richland Hills Stakes. Here's hoping she'll continue down this road of improvement. HM Kay Dynasty has been running under the radar, but in his last 5 starts he has 3 wins and 2 seconds he's starting to gain some attention (at least among Hopeful Farm staff). He's got some speed, but can he turn it into a winning formula remains to be seen. 
• Changing Plans: It's no secret that I had originally planned a classics schedule for War of the Lilies this year. But as the results have clearly shown, she just doesn't have the stamina to cut it. But that doesn't mean she's out of racing. She's still a talented filly with some tremendous speed. Look for her at 8 furlongs and under starting in the Yasuda Kinen.
• Still a Few Surprises: Southern Belle won the Kentucky Oaks, Coaching Club American Oaks, and Breeder's Cup Distaff last year. In her last start she was very impressive winning the Santa Anita Handicap with an impressive time of 1:58.75. She showed speed and stamina I didn't know she had. Now she faces Gradient and a talented field in the Metropolitan Handicap. Can she win? I don't know, but I've got a wager on her to win. 
• In Need of Stalls: I am currently at capacity and because I have no free stalls I can not bid on any horse on the Sales List. This needs to change.... soon.