deja vu

That's what I get for refusing to spell check that filly's name. Darn. Veiled Reference ran great, got beat by about a half length by Shesmymortalenemy on Sunday at Charles Town (chart here). VR took a nasty stumble at the start that proved the difference, and did really well to soldier on as she did. If we weren't sure after the first start, we sure are now: those CT turns are not fun for our girl. Just too tight. Sheskeepingmeupatnights is able to scoot around them like a little motorcycle, while VR has to work hard just to make her way around. All the credit to the winner and her jock, who rode a great tactical race. She's a handy filly that really loves that track and lays it down every time out. I saw her back in the receiving barn afterwards and she looked like she'd been through the ringer, but you have to admire those kinds of horses, even if they're giving you nothing but headaches.

Veiled Reference did come out of the race somewhat banged up. That stumble at the start took a toll on that foot of hers (that's a lot of weight to hoist up), so we're going to keep an eye on it over the coming days. She's been walking the shedrow this week; if all well, we'll get her back on the track maybe next week. I'll have to get on to Tim and figure out where to next. Beyer speed figure came back at a 72, which is fine enough 2nd off nearly 2yr layoff. Goal for third off is drive back to Baltimore where I'm not muttering to myself the entire trip back home.