By Ashley Herriman
Monday morning dawned cool and crisp as Rachel Alexandra took to the track for her final workout prior to Saturday’s Woodward under a pink-streaked sky.
“It feels great to get that breeze in today under such nice circumstances – cool morning, the racetrack is in great shape,” said trainer Steve Asmussen after the half-mile work. “She looked very happy…[and if] she’s happy, we’re happy.”
The fine weather added even more to the anticipation surrounding the leggy bay filly’s latest attempt to make history and become the first of her sex to win the Woodward. Watching Rachel this morning, it was hard not to think you were already bearing witness to something very special.
Asmussen said earlier this week that he thought Rachel probably considered the phalanx of photographers recording her every move and the throng of reporters furiously scribbling every word uttered by her connections “normal.” He meant that for humans and animals alike, one’s reality becomes the norm and the constant attention is part of Rachel’s reality.
One look at the filly floating over the track this morning dispelled any notion of normalcy, especially when she came back looking as though she’d hardly exerted herself. She’s abnormal in the best of ways, and her admirers around the world will be watching on Saturday, hoping to see her defy convention once again.
I love you Rachel. Go girlie girl!
ReplyDeleteCongratualtions Ms Alexandra on your win in the Woodward yesterday. When I saw you in person at Belmont Park this June, I knew right then and there, that I would never see anything like you again.
ReplyDeleteYou have thrilled me and my family since watching you in the Oaks. Even my 18 month old twins throw their arms up in the air when we exclaim, GO RACHEL!
We are all so very proud of you.
Rachel is phenomenal!!! I haven't followed horse racing in years, but Rachel stole my heart. I'm glad JJ has agreed to let Rachel rest awhile. I read everything I can about her. I also watch all the video clips, and one thing I wish I saw more of, is Rachel getting petted. I see Zenyatta's owners, trainers, and jockey giving her head scratches and kisses routinely, but Rachel seems to receive less of this. Come on, you all...she has feelings too!!!
ReplyDeleteThe EAST COAST MUST push for Rachel for the Horse of the Year. The West Coast is courting Zenyatta on a daily basis.
ReplyDeleteThe people who vote need to READ the 2009 racing results. RACHEL is the Horse of the Year!!!