The Kentucky basketball team continues to lick it's wounds after a narrow loss at Indiana last Saturday in Bloomington. The loss has left many fans questioning the toughness of this team and in particular their pre-season All American, Terrance Jones. Questions have been raised that can only be answered as this young team hopefully matures. True the crowd in Indiana was off the charts, but hostile crowds have always been a staple in the SEC. Maybe they get a pass for feeling this intensity for the first time.
Now Kentucky embarks on what is probably the softness part of their schedule. Games with Chattanooga, Samford, Loyola-Md, and Lamar precede a show down of top five teams on New Years Eve with Louisville. The importance of these games is not the Sports Center type plays that are sure to come out of these games against over matched opponents, it's how much this team can take from defeat and apply it to getting better. Will they bring intensity, and a work ethic that shows a willingness to get better?
It's Christmas time and the fans will be in a festive mood. Many will come to Rupp to see their beloved Cats for the very first time, and naturally hope to see some spectacular dunks and sizzle. But don't lose sight of the fact that this can be a time to improve and set the standard for what can be the start of a magical time in the Big Blue Nation. Christmas pudding is a wonderful treat this time of year, but don't forget the turkey and the trimmings.
Thursday, December 15, 2011
Friday, November 11, 2011
Old Friend
Living can sometimes get you down. The everyday grind of work and turmoil, traveling here and there, makes it seem like there are never enough hours in each day. Routines become boring and all of us look for ways of escape. Sports has always been one of those vehicles of escape for many. All sports mean certain things to different people. Some can hardly wait for the first "Kick Off" of football season and spend countless hours contemplating what excitement that will bring. For me I love the opening day of baseball and the promise of not just a good season, but the added benefit of good weather to follow. Many of us use sports as a way to lessen the tedious road that is life.
Every fall after the brilliant colors have had their day, and a north wind starts to blow the leaves away, I start to look forward to a season that gives me a buttress to combat the everyday harshness of winter, and that season is basketball, more specifically Kentucky Basketball. For months fans from all across the bluegrass, have discussed, speculated, and dreamed about a magical run for the Wildcats. Can the freshmen blend with the veterans and create a memory that all Kentucky Fans will speak of for years to come? In the midst of our boring routines a season comes around that gives us pause, and something to look forward to at least twice a week until spring comes again. It is a great distraction.
Tonight the Kentucky Basketball season "Tips Off" and I for one could not be happier. I need this distraction to help fight off the prospect of spending far to many days inside instead of out. I need the excitement that a winning season can generate. I need a friend to help me ward off the chill of that old north wind and the shortening day light. I need a break from the mundane of all that. So I say welcome back Kentucky Basketball, what took you so long to arrive? Things seem a bit brighter looking ahead, now that you are here. Welcome back Old Friend.
Every fall after the brilliant colors have had their day, and a north wind starts to blow the leaves away, I start to look forward to a season that gives me a buttress to combat the everyday harshness of winter, and that season is basketball, more specifically Kentucky Basketball. For months fans from all across the bluegrass, have discussed, speculated, and dreamed about a magical run for the Wildcats. Can the freshmen blend with the veterans and create a memory that all Kentucky Fans will speak of for years to come? In the midst of our boring routines a season comes around that gives us pause, and something to look forward to at least twice a week until spring comes again. It is a great distraction.
Tonight the Kentucky Basketball season "Tips Off" and I for one could not be happier. I need this distraction to help fight off the prospect of spending far to many days inside instead of out. I need the excitement that a winning season can generate. I need a friend to help me ward off the chill of that old north wind and the shortening day light. I need a break from the mundane of all that. So I say welcome back Kentucky Basketball, what took you so long to arrive? Things seem a bit brighter looking ahead, now that you are here. Welcome back Old Friend.
Wednesday, November 2, 2011
The Hundred Years War
For the first time in a hundred years the University of Kentucky and Transylvania University will square off in a basketball game. There were only 77 million people in the US, President McKinley was shot, Queen Victoria had just died, and federal spending had just topped the $500 million mark. Sportswise the first World Series was yet to be played, Harvard was the best football team in the land, and His Eminence won the Kentucky Derby. Technologically Marconi had just sent the first radio signal across the Atlantic, and this new idea of a horseless carriage was all the rage. That was some of what was going on the last time Kentucky and Transylvania met in scheduled basketball game.
How does this happen and why is it happening now? I know that these two universities play on a completely different level when it comes to college basketball. I know that the economics are not the driving force behind this athletic contest and even pride seems to have little to do with it. There has never been a ground swell from the fans or the media for this game to take place, so for a century it just never happened.
I must confess that the idea of Kentucky playing a game against a neighbor like Transy never occurred to me, but now that it is happening, I am excited. You might say I am looking forward to it, not for the expected outcome or the rivalry aspect, but for the idea that this just might be a really good time. When you stop and think about it that's what college sports is supposed to be about.
How does this happen and why is it happening now? I know that these two universities play on a completely different level when it comes to college basketball. I know that the economics are not the driving force behind this athletic contest and even pride seems to have little to do with it. There has never been a ground swell from the fans or the media for this game to take place, so for a century it just never happened.
I must confess that the idea of Kentucky playing a game against a neighbor like Transy never occurred to me, but now that it is happening, I am excited. You might say I am looking forward to it, not for the expected outcome or the rivalry aspect, but for the idea that this just might be a really good time. When you stop and think about it that's what college sports is supposed to be about.
Friday, October 28, 2011
Scary Good
Tonight is game seven of the World Series. This is the first time the Series has gone to a game seven in nine years. Hard to believe, since most of our fantasies about the great game of baseball seem to revolve around that mythical game seven, and for me it is among the greatest spectacles in sports. One of the definitions of drama is the seventh game of the World Series. I know most of you can come up with other moments or events that may rival this, the Super Bowl, the National Championships in football and basketball, and of course the Kentucky Derby. But for me I just like saying GAME SEVEN OF THE WORLD SERIES!
I don't have a heavy rooting interest in this game, in fact I like both teams and their players, but I will not miss this. This is what makes sports fun. Baseball is different from most sports in that the players in tonight's game take the field and linger on the game at a slower pace, they have time to think, to fret between pitches, which ultimately lends more pressure to a simmering cooker. Mistakes will happen, magical moments will as well, and goats and heroes will share this stage. Nothing can be much better then that. All of the players, coaches, and fans spent countless hours in their backyards simulating what they are experiencing tonight, and when you stop and think about it, it is downright scary! But on the other hand it sure is good!
I don't have a heavy rooting interest in this game, in fact I like both teams and their players, but I will not miss this. This is what makes sports fun. Baseball is different from most sports in that the players in tonight's game take the field and linger on the game at a slower pace, they have time to think, to fret between pitches, which ultimately lends more pressure to a simmering cooker. Mistakes will happen, magical moments will as well, and goats and heroes will share this stage. Nothing can be much better then that. All of the players, coaches, and fans spent countless hours in their backyards simulating what they are experiencing tonight, and when you stop and think about it, it is downright scary! But on the other hand it sure is good!
Friday, October 14, 2011
Basketball Madness
We are only a few short weeks away from another college basketball season, and no place anticipates it more then the folks here in the bluegrass. A record number of people and tents camped out just to get free tickets to the first practice. Practice is hardly what Big Blue Madness is all about. It's more about a celebration of basketball, a way to honor a team, a program for so many memorable moments that occured the last time our basketball team took the floor. It's an outrageous display of affection for young men who put on our colors and carry us into battle. It's a time to get behind our General and put our faith in his ability to bring more glory to a pride that is already running over.
Madness is not just the first practice, perhaps at other programs, but not at Kentucky. Madness is a time to honor and respect a thing that will ultametily get us through the bleak winter weather just ahead. For more than seventy years basketball has kept a light burning for all of us when the promise of spring seems a distant point. Pride in something done well, year after year, puts us Kentuckians in a rare class of elitist who "get something" that few groups ever experiance. Many of our critics think of this as arrogance, and perhaps it is. But most of our critics have never experianced the longevity of excellence that is Kentucky Basketball.
So, you insane fanatics of Big Blue Madness, who camped out for days and will drive for miles to just watch practice, enjoy. Does it realy matter to you if someone doesn't understand? When you paint your faces and scream until you throat is sore for practice, and constantily get reminded that basketball is just a game. Remember this, those that don't get it have proably never had anything in their lives to be proud of.
Madness is not just the first practice, perhaps at other programs, but not at Kentucky. Madness is a time to honor and respect a thing that will ultametily get us through the bleak winter weather just ahead. For more than seventy years basketball has kept a light burning for all of us when the promise of spring seems a distant point. Pride in something done well, year after year, puts us Kentuckians in a rare class of elitist who "get something" that few groups ever experiance. Many of our critics think of this as arrogance, and perhaps it is. But most of our critics have never experianced the longevity of excellence that is Kentucky Basketball.
So, you insane fanatics of Big Blue Madness, who camped out for days and will drive for miles to just watch practice, enjoy. Does it realy matter to you if someone doesn't understand? When you paint your faces and scream until you throat is sore for practice, and constantily get reminded that basketball is just a game. Remember this, those that don't get it have proably never had anything in their lives to be proud of.
Thursday, September 29, 2011
Baseball Bounce
The 2011 Major League Season just ended. My team, the Cincinnati Reds, only contended for about half of it, but that's OK because the ending of this season created some magical moments for me. The collapse of both the Red Sox and the Braves, showed that the 162 game schedule is meant to be played to the end. The surge of the Cardinals and the Rays was another glimpse of how anything is possible if you don't quit. There was much to be learned from this memorable baseball season. In many ways the season is the journey and the playoffs only add a finality that allows us to realize that baseball is rapidly coming to an end. No more warm summer nights of fun at the ballpark, no more pennant races to watch, and only the prospect of cold winter days while waiting for spring to come.
This has been a memorable season for other reasons. Millions attended the games, some places attaining record numbers, and all the while baseball didn't disappoint. There were few controversies this season, although a lot of people think that Jose Reyes was a bit selfish in the way he achieved the National League Batting Title. No one will soon mistake him for Ted Williams. The steroid era seems to be in the past and scoring and home run output will bear that up. Some great pitching performances, Justin Verlander is just one that comes to mind, the entire staff of the Philadelphia Phillies, and a few no-hitters sprinkled in for conversation. The season has ended and it seems like an old friend who comes to visit, you are kind of glad he's gone but still you can't wait until he comes again.
That's the great thing about baseball, it is like an old friend who has been with you since you were a kid, and now that you are an adult the familiarity of baseball is a true tie to your youth. Yes, this has been a season to remember. It won't be that long until the pitchers and catchers report for spring training and we get to do it all again. Oh, and one more thing if you can't wait that long the Playoffs start tomorrow.
This has been a memorable season for other reasons. Millions attended the games, some places attaining record numbers, and all the while baseball didn't disappoint. There were few controversies this season, although a lot of people think that Jose Reyes was a bit selfish in the way he achieved the National League Batting Title. No one will soon mistake him for Ted Williams. The steroid era seems to be in the past and scoring and home run output will bear that up. Some great pitching performances, Justin Verlander is just one that comes to mind, the entire staff of the Philadelphia Phillies, and a few no-hitters sprinkled in for conversation. The season has ended and it seems like an old friend who comes to visit, you are kind of glad he's gone but still you can't wait until he comes again.
That's the great thing about baseball, it is like an old friend who has been with you since you were a kid, and now that you are an adult the familiarity of baseball is a true tie to your youth. Yes, this has been a season to remember. It won't be that long until the pitchers and catchers report for spring training and we get to do it all again. Oh, and one more thing if you can't wait that long the Playoffs start tomorrow.
Friday, September 16, 2011
Mediocrity
The University of Kentucky has played 1182 football games since it played it's first one back in 1881. Kentucky has won 573 lost 565 and tied 44. That's just about as close as you can get to mediocre in 130 years of gridiron action. There have been some great moments, the era of Bear Bryant, the mid seventies under Fran Curci, and of course the rejuvenation under Rich Brooks. But most of the years in between has been characterised by "ho-hum" mediocrity.
As we arrive on the eve of the Kentucky/Louisville, arguably our biggest rival, football game, I wonder why the fans are so surprised and apathetic of this years showing of Wildcats. Many fans predicted an SEC Championship, at the very least a bigger bowl then the previous years. The season is a long way from over Wildcat fans. People are staying away from this Saturday's game, or at least that's what they claim, like it's some kind of insult that this years team hasn't performed up to their expectations. Folks this is not Kentucky Basketball, there should be few expectations of championships. Football at Kentucky is what it is, a way to go out on a fall day, with your family and friends, and root for your home state's school.
Kentucky Football will always be there for you why shouldn't you be there for it. Why not enjoy the moments when they come. Remember Andre Woodson's pass to Stevie Johnson in 2007 to win the game over the Cardinals, or that emotional win over number 1 ranked LSU, something akin to that might happen on Saturday. Don't dwell on the fact that Kentucky Football doesn't live up to your expectations, dwell on the pleasure that a fall afternoon of football brings, and that pleasure is never mediocre.
As we arrive on the eve of the Kentucky/Louisville, arguably our biggest rival, football game, I wonder why the fans are so surprised and apathetic of this years showing of Wildcats. Many fans predicted an SEC Championship, at the very least a bigger bowl then the previous years. The season is a long way from over Wildcat fans. People are staying away from this Saturday's game, or at least that's what they claim, like it's some kind of insult that this years team hasn't performed up to their expectations. Folks this is not Kentucky Basketball, there should be few expectations of championships. Football at Kentucky is what it is, a way to go out on a fall day, with your family and friends, and root for your home state's school.
Kentucky Football will always be there for you why shouldn't you be there for it. Why not enjoy the moments when they come. Remember Andre Woodson's pass to Stevie Johnson in 2007 to win the game over the Cardinals, or that emotional win over number 1 ranked LSU, something akin to that might happen on Saturday. Don't dwell on the fact that Kentucky Football doesn't live up to your expectations, dwell on the pleasure that a fall afternoon of football brings, and that pleasure is never mediocre.
Thursday, September 1, 2011
Hope
We stand on the precipice of another college football season, and hopes here in the Commonwealth of Kentucky are high as usual. For the last month we have asked the question on our radio show "The Sports Huddle" what this season will bring in football fortune. After all at the moment Kentucky is undefeated. Predictions have ranged from 11-1 to 6-6, with an average being around 7-5 or 8-4. Kentucky has had only three seasons in the last fifty-eight years where they have won eight times, not a lot to base these lofty predictions on.
Kentucky starts the new season with a unseasoned quarterback, holes to fill on both the defensive and offensive lines, non starters in the backfield, and receivers that have played very little. All the more reason to take a reasonable look at this years addition of Wildcats. But, then we wouldn't be fans. Fans want to see the possibility not the realism of well over a hundred years of disappointment. Don't forget we are still undefeated.
That's what is so great about a beautiful Saturday afternoon, tailgating with your friends, and bragging about what this season might bring, Football may very well be the stuff that hope is made of. The fall brings the last days of pretty weather and for a while holds back the inevitable of the approaching winter. It's still a time when you can get outside and enjoy nature and hope for a winning football team. And if the season doesn't go as well as most fans hope, well, each game brings us that much closer to basketball season. Hopes change to expectation then.
Kentucky starts the new season with a unseasoned quarterback, holes to fill on both the defensive and offensive lines, non starters in the backfield, and receivers that have played very little. All the more reason to take a reasonable look at this years addition of Wildcats. But, then we wouldn't be fans. Fans want to see the possibility not the realism of well over a hundred years of disappointment. Don't forget we are still undefeated.
That's what is so great about a beautiful Saturday afternoon, tailgating with your friends, and bragging about what this season might bring, Football may very well be the stuff that hope is made of. The fall brings the last days of pretty weather and for a while holds back the inevitable of the approaching winter. It's still a time when you can get outside and enjoy nature and hope for a winning football team. And if the season doesn't go as well as most fans hope, well, each game brings us that much closer to basketball season. Hopes change to expectation then.
Tuesday, August 23, 2011
Revolution
"There is going to be a revolution" or so says the old Beatles song, and this time I think they were right. There is a revolution a foot in big time college athletics. Anarchy is the rule among the titans of college sports. The NCAA is being blasted from all corners, money has become the only ideal that seems to be adhered to by these powers that supposedly put the "student athlete" first, and foremost in their credo. Look what just happened at Miami, Ohio State, and countless other universities across the NCAA landscape. Lack of institutional control, or lack of governmental control? The NCAA has legislated themselves to near extinction and all the while adopted an attitude of being above these dirty little affairs. Most sports fans see through it!
Revolution is every where these days. Schools are moving conferences to gain their bigger piece of the pie. The new catch words are "Super Conferences" and "BCS". The old way of geographic conferences are fast becoming a thing of the past and the NCAA has little power to stop it. Talk of paying athletes is gaining legs, playoffs in football are moving toward fruition, and all the while the NCAA fiddles while their Rome burns.
Other questions arise, such as what happens to mid-major conferences, and where will the revenues come from if all of the television monies are spent on the super conferences? They will never be able to afford to pay their athletes, and I don't advocate that they should, but it will drive a greater wedge between the major and minors. Times are changing and when this dam breaks lets hope that the current way of enjoying college athletics is not swept away with it. Anarchy is brewing and revolution seems inevitable, but there is the old saying of "be careful what you wish for" it could be worse then what you have.
Revolution is every where these days. Schools are moving conferences to gain their bigger piece of the pie. The new catch words are "Super Conferences" and "BCS". The old way of geographic conferences are fast becoming a thing of the past and the NCAA has little power to stop it. Talk of paying athletes is gaining legs, playoffs in football are moving toward fruition, and all the while the NCAA fiddles while their Rome burns.
Other questions arise, such as what happens to mid-major conferences, and where will the revenues come from if all of the television monies are spent on the super conferences? They will never be able to afford to pay their athletes, and I don't advocate that they should, but it will drive a greater wedge between the major and minors. Times are changing and when this dam breaks lets hope that the current way of enjoying college athletics is not swept away with it. Anarchy is brewing and revolution seems inevitable, but there is the old saying of "be careful what you wish for" it could be worse then what you have.
Friday, August 5, 2011
Football Crush
This morning was the annual media day for University of Kentucky football at Commonwealth Stadium. I always enjoy the event because of the renewal of old acquaintances from print, electronic, television, and radio media. It's still has the feeling of the first day of school. The members are catching up on what has transpired since we last got together during basketball season. Food is served in the Wildcat Den, one of the things that gets so many people to come from all over, and suddenly football is on every ones mind.
Optimism reigns supreme, a mean feat for Kentucky Football. The coaches are spewing positive spins, the players get their team pictures taken in their uniforms, looking fit and ready to go. Out on the field reporters flock to coaches and players usually in order of perceived importance. The atmosphere is just down right jovial. Can the team go 9-3, is the schedule as tough as last season, and for sure there must be another bowl game at season's end. Hope is the theme of the day, injury and heart aches, the bane of any football team, is still in the future. Media day is a time for a new beginning, a renewal of one of the fun things that makes us all enjoy being a Wildcat fan.
Now the football "crush" begins, two a days, studying the playbook, training regiments, getting use to your teammates and coaches. The members of the media start the onslaught of gathering information and speculating on every aspect of this brand new edition of Kentucky Football. Gone will be the giddy atmosphere of this mornings meeting of coaches, players, and the people who bring news of the team to the fans. Who knows what this season will bring, probably not as good as the most optimistic predictions, and probably not as bad as the most negative observers, just somewhere in between. One prediction is sure to come true, there will be moments of heart stopping excitement, moments of anger, mixed in with downright despair, but that's football and the real reason that anybody cares at all. As long as I am at it, can we go 12-0,. win the SEC and challenge for a National Championship? Maybe, it's early yet.
Optimism reigns supreme, a mean feat for Kentucky Football. The coaches are spewing positive spins, the players get their team pictures taken in their uniforms, looking fit and ready to go. Out on the field reporters flock to coaches and players usually in order of perceived importance. The atmosphere is just down right jovial. Can the team go 9-3, is the schedule as tough as last season, and for sure there must be another bowl game at season's end. Hope is the theme of the day, injury and heart aches, the bane of any football team, is still in the future. Media day is a time for a new beginning, a renewal of one of the fun things that makes us all enjoy being a Wildcat fan.
Now the football "crush" begins, two a days, studying the playbook, training regiments, getting use to your teammates and coaches. The members of the media start the onslaught of gathering information and speculating on every aspect of this brand new edition of Kentucky Football. Gone will be the giddy atmosphere of this mornings meeting of coaches, players, and the people who bring news of the team to the fans. Who knows what this season will bring, probably not as good as the most optimistic predictions, and probably not as bad as the most negative observers, just somewhere in between. One prediction is sure to come true, there will be moments of heart stopping excitement, moments of anger, mixed in with downright despair, but that's football and the real reason that anybody cares at all. As long as I am at it, can we go 12-0,. win the SEC and challenge for a National Championship? Maybe, it's early yet.
Wednesday, July 13, 2011
Tarnished Star
The 82nd Major League Baseball All Star game has come and gone, with out much interest it would seem. T.V. ratings were down 19% from last year and some are even calling for the end of this summer classic. Players bolted at an alarming rate, and the "buzz" that once drove argument and excitement is no more. This amid a game that actually means something now, like home field advantage in the World Series. What's wrong?
Some blame inter league play, some player's salaries, and some say baseball is simply in decline. I remember in years past the anticipation of being able to see a galaxy of baseball stars, all gathered in one location, ready to do battle, and uphold the honor of which ever league, National or American, that you happened to root for. They never seemed to disappoint. What changed?
For one thing the way we watch T.V. has changed. Multiple channels of diverse interests has given Americans an endless choice. I don't think America has turned against baseball I think it's just to easy to push a button and see what's happening up or down the spectrum. It's summer, people are more mobile now then they ever were in the past. Most people are under the threat of constant distraction. Players as well as fans fall victim to the same temptations. It is a long season and maybe they need a vacation like everyone else. Where do we go from here?
I don't have the answer. There are many suggestions out there but it will take someone with more insight then me to find a fix for a declining American Classic. I continue to watch with mild interest to see how my hometown boys will do, but never with the fervor that once existed. Whatever happens with the MLB All Star game, count me as one who misses a time in the past, when I looked forward to a summer evening of pure escapism. Maybe I am just distracted too.
Some blame inter league play, some player's salaries, and some say baseball is simply in decline. I remember in years past the anticipation of being able to see a galaxy of baseball stars, all gathered in one location, ready to do battle, and uphold the honor of which ever league, National or American, that you happened to root for. They never seemed to disappoint. What changed?
For one thing the way we watch T.V. has changed. Multiple channels of diverse interests has given Americans an endless choice. I don't think America has turned against baseball I think it's just to easy to push a button and see what's happening up or down the spectrum. It's summer, people are more mobile now then they ever were in the past. Most people are under the threat of constant distraction. Players as well as fans fall victim to the same temptations. It is a long season and maybe they need a vacation like everyone else. Where do we go from here?
I don't have the answer. There are many suggestions out there but it will take someone with more insight then me to find a fix for a declining American Classic. I continue to watch with mild interest to see how my hometown boys will do, but never with the fervor that once existed. Whatever happens with the MLB All Star game, count me as one who misses a time in the past, when I looked forward to a summer evening of pure escapism. Maybe I am just distracted too.
Friday, July 8, 2011
Bluegrass Pauper
Horse racing has long been known as the "Sport of Kings", primarily because the great races have been contested by owners that are among the wealthiest people in the world. People who spend millions on horse flesh and expect millions in return for their investments. However, at most racetracks the "under cards" are cheaper horses owned and trained by people that are no where near being captains of industry, or kings.
Horse racing is a dying sport! The racetracks care little about the cheap horses or the small horsemen, who dwell just as hard trying to grind out a living in a sport they love but seldom loves them back. Casino gambling seems to be the only pursuit of racetracks these days, in fact, racing appears to be a nuisance. Purses for cheap races continue to decline so that most of the money can be diverted to a chosen few that can compete in the bigger races.
I have owned, trained, and bred thoroughbred racehorses for many years, not to win classic races, but to compete in a sport that is just as much a part of my heritage as the connections that run in the Kentucky Derby. A bale of hay or straw costs no more for a million dollar horse then it does for a five thousand dollar claimer. Yet we, the small horsemen, are sacrificed to insure that the racetracks can put on a great show for the public, whom they hope will soon become customers in their casino.
The racetracks may need the small horsemen some day, especially if casino gambling doesn't realize their dreams of riches. They may find that one day they might need a race filled to complete their "under card", so they can brag about the quality of choices the bettors have, but you will never catch them increasing purses to attract us. Horse racing is still the Sport of Kings" only because it has serfs who are willing to do the heavy lifting, in a sport that apparently has forgotten, or doesn't care, that most of the players are turning into paupers.
Horse racing is a dying sport! The racetracks care little about the cheap horses or the small horsemen, who dwell just as hard trying to grind out a living in a sport they love but seldom loves them back. Casino gambling seems to be the only pursuit of racetracks these days, in fact, racing appears to be a nuisance. Purses for cheap races continue to decline so that most of the money can be diverted to a chosen few that can compete in the bigger races.
I have owned, trained, and bred thoroughbred racehorses for many years, not to win classic races, but to compete in a sport that is just as much a part of my heritage as the connections that run in the Kentucky Derby. A bale of hay or straw costs no more for a million dollar horse then it does for a five thousand dollar claimer. Yet we, the small horsemen, are sacrificed to insure that the racetracks can put on a great show for the public, whom they hope will soon become customers in their casino.
The racetracks may need the small horsemen some day, especially if casino gambling doesn't realize their dreams of riches. They may find that one day they might need a race filled to complete their "under card", so they can brag about the quality of choices the bettors have, but you will never catch them increasing purses to attract us. Horse racing is still the Sport of Kings" only because it has serfs who are willing to do the heavy lifting, in a sport that apparently has forgotten, or doesn't care, that most of the players are turning into paupers.
Sunday, June 26, 2011
Golden Age
Here we sit in the veil of summer, the NBA season and draft are finally over and football is still weeks away. Only baseball is our everyday friend. Here in Kentucky it's never not a good time to think about basketball. Fans are waiting impatiently for the start of another Kentucky basketball season and hopes are always at a fever pitch.
Since John Calipari arrived nine players have gone to the NBA and a Final Four is still fresh in the minds of fans. He has managed to recruit some of the best talent in years to play for the Wildcats and the pool seems limitless. After years of Tubby Smith and Billy Gillispie the Wildcat faithful are wearing a pride that has not been seen around these parts since the 1990's. Most fans don't remember the great decades of the Adolf Rupp era, that's only a name that is attached to their favorite arena, much like famous leaders in history have their picture on our money. Joe Hall was never appreciated for any of his accomplishments, and Eddie Sutton will remain an underachiever who squandered his chance at the apex of college basketball.
Which brings us to Rick Pitino. No more affection and accolades could have been given to a Coach who led a once proud program out of despair and firmly stationed it at the pinnacle of success. Wildcat fans were once again proud and content that they could brag about the accomplishment of a program that had been the source of so much enjoyment over the years. Once again Wildcat fans were in the midst of a golden age at Kentucky. Then he left.
For a decade the once proud program flirted with success only to fall victim to upset and disparity. It seemed that they would never enjoy a golden age of basketball again. In steps Coach Cal with his optimism and his stable of young stars, his Elite Eights, his Final Fours, and once again the wild ride of magical seasons restored the faithful. Never mind that he infuriates the NCAA and all of the other coaches and fans, of every other team in the land. What Wildcat fans are in the midst of is another Golden Age of Kentucky Basketball. Appreciate it this time and enjoy the ride.
Since John Calipari arrived nine players have gone to the NBA and a Final Four is still fresh in the minds of fans. He has managed to recruit some of the best talent in years to play for the Wildcats and the pool seems limitless. After years of Tubby Smith and Billy Gillispie the Wildcat faithful are wearing a pride that has not been seen around these parts since the 1990's. Most fans don't remember the great decades of the Adolf Rupp era, that's only a name that is attached to their favorite arena, much like famous leaders in history have their picture on our money. Joe Hall was never appreciated for any of his accomplishments, and Eddie Sutton will remain an underachiever who squandered his chance at the apex of college basketball.
Which brings us to Rick Pitino. No more affection and accolades could have been given to a Coach who led a once proud program out of despair and firmly stationed it at the pinnacle of success. Wildcat fans were once again proud and content that they could brag about the accomplishment of a program that had been the source of so much enjoyment over the years. Once again Wildcat fans were in the midst of a golden age at Kentucky. Then he left.
For a decade the once proud program flirted with success only to fall victim to upset and disparity. It seemed that they would never enjoy a golden age of basketball again. In steps Coach Cal with his optimism and his stable of young stars, his Elite Eights, his Final Fours, and once again the wild ride of magical seasons restored the faithful. Never mind that he infuriates the NCAA and all of the other coaches and fans, of every other team in the land. What Wildcat fans are in the midst of is another Golden Age of Kentucky Basketball. Appreciate it this time and enjoy the ride.
Friday, June 17, 2011
Color Radio
I grew up in rural Kentucky and my only connection to big cities was through their sports teams. I remember hot summer nights sitting in the backyard with my grandfather, star gazing and listening to the Cincinnati Reds on the radio. The radio became my eyes and ears for what was happening in the big leagues. I imagined Ted Kluszewski, partly because I had seen pictures of him in the newspaper, strolling to the plate to perform some Herculean feat. I fantasied about the blazing fast ball of Jim Maloney and the slick fielding of Roy Mcmillian. I had been to very few baseball games so the sound of the announcer's voice painted a vivid picture in my mind of what it was like to be at Crosley Field.
To this day when I go to a game I think back to those summer nights in my backyard with my grandfather, learning about life and baseball. Not all of my lessons where for the best like which beer or tobacco product I should choose, but the stimulation of my imagination from the radio are still with me today.
Now I complain because a game is not in High Definition, or that I have to push the DVR button between innings. All of us seem to sit with a high tech device in our hands even while we are watching the game. While I sit in my home looking at big screen television in full stereo, I wonder if this was ever as good as those summer nights, sitting in the backyard with my grandfather and my imagination, listening to color radio.
To this day when I go to a game I think back to those summer nights in my backyard with my grandfather, learning about life and baseball. Not all of my lessons where for the best like which beer or tobacco product I should choose, but the stimulation of my imagination from the radio are still with me today.
Now I complain because a game is not in High Definition, or that I have to push the DVR button between innings. All of us seem to sit with a high tech device in our hands even while we are watching the game. While I sit in my home looking at big screen television in full stereo, I wonder if this was ever as good as those summer nights, sitting in the backyard with my grandfather and my imagination, listening to color radio.
Monday, June 13, 2011
Front Runner
"Morning Glory" is a term in horse racing given to a horse that lights up your stopwatch in morning workouts but runs poorly on race day. Many times these horses are gifted, super star athletes that wilt under the pressure of racing, and often times to inferior or less talented horses. That expression got me to thinking about the Dallas Maverick's win over Lebron James and the Miami Heat in the NBA Finals.
I will not call Lebron James a "morning glory" but I will call him a front runner. Front runners are horses that have great speed and run like the greatest of all time, as long as no other horse challenges them, but just as soon as another horse looks them in the eye, they wilt under pressure and fade back into the pack. This is what Lebron did during the Finals against the Dallas Mavericks. Dirk Nowitski has nowhere near the athletic talent that Lebron possesses, but when the game was on the line, in the fourth quarter, he looked Lebron in the eye and he wilted.
What is it about less talented horses and athletes that give them the will to win when they probably should not? Why do they call on an inner strength and leave the more talented foes in their wake? Could it be that they have not had it as easy as the more gifted, anointed ones have? Sometimes when these gifted athletes rest on their laurels they forget that all glory is earned, not handed out like so much fan fare. Front runners do occasionally win, but when they do, they better never forget that there is always a stalker of the pace, lying in wait, for a show of weakness, ready to strike with a vengeance on those that think they will always have everything their own way.
I will not call Lebron James a "morning glory" but I will call him a front runner. Front runners are horses that have great speed and run like the greatest of all time, as long as no other horse challenges them, but just as soon as another horse looks them in the eye, they wilt under pressure and fade back into the pack. This is what Lebron did during the Finals against the Dallas Mavericks. Dirk Nowitski has nowhere near the athletic talent that Lebron possesses, but when the game was on the line, in the fourth quarter, he looked Lebron in the eye and he wilted.
What is it about less talented horses and athletes that give them the will to win when they probably should not? Why do they call on an inner strength and leave the more talented foes in their wake? Could it be that they have not had it as easy as the more gifted, anointed ones have? Sometimes when these gifted athletes rest on their laurels they forget that all glory is earned, not handed out like so much fan fare. Front runners do occasionally win, but when they do, they better never forget that there is always a stalker of the pace, lying in wait, for a show of weakness, ready to strike with a vengeance on those that think they will always have everything their own way.
Thursday, June 9, 2011
The Belmont
Most thoroughbred racehorses are bred to only run a mile, some less, some more. The "burn" is the expression when all athletes, human and equine, reach a point where stamina and desire have reached the limit and the proverbial "wall" is hit. That's why the Kentucky Derby's one mile and a quarter distance is considered the best blend of speed and stamina, and often called the classic distance. A mile and a half, that's how far the Belmont Stakes is, a quarter of a mile farther than the Derby. These young three year olds will run a distance that certainly none have ever run before, and almost certainly will never run again. This is why the Belmont Stakes has always been known as the "Test of the Champions." It is easy for horses to give up when they have reached their limit, but those great ones dig deeper and courage is what carries them on to greatness.
This is why the Belmont Stakes is considered one of the classic races in all of horse racing. There is no Triple Crown on the line this year but that doesn't diminish the fact that this race is still a "Test of the Champions." The Belmont was first run in 1867, eight years prior to the Kentucky Derby, and comes with its on set of traditions. A blanket of white carnations is draped across the withers of the Champion, as well as a statue of Secretariat located in the paddock area. The horses enter the track to the tune of "New York, New York," and like the Derby, where the mint julep is the drink, the White Carnation is the official choice of "New Yorkers." It doesn't matter that these traditions of songs and official drinks fall a bit short of the fabled Kentucky Derby traditions, make no mistake about it the Belmont Stake is every bit as great a race.
Eight of the three year old colts that ran in the Kentucky Derby will try each other again in the Belmont. New "shooters" who have marked their time will try and ambush these top contenders down that long, grueling stretch at Belmont Park on Saturday. But one thing is for sure, which ever colt wins the Belmont Stakes, he might not be as fast as Secretariat, or even a Triple Crown winner, but when the "burn" kicks in, and he digs in a little deeper, he will always be considered courageous, and pass the test as Belmont Champion.
This is why the Belmont Stakes is considered one of the classic races in all of horse racing. There is no Triple Crown on the line this year but that doesn't diminish the fact that this race is still a "Test of the Champions." The Belmont was first run in 1867, eight years prior to the Kentucky Derby, and comes with its on set of traditions. A blanket of white carnations is draped across the withers of the Champion, as well as a statue of Secretariat located in the paddock area. The horses enter the track to the tune of "New York, New York," and like the Derby, where the mint julep is the drink, the White Carnation is the official choice of "New Yorkers." It doesn't matter that these traditions of songs and official drinks fall a bit short of the fabled Kentucky Derby traditions, make no mistake about it the Belmont Stake is every bit as great a race.
Eight of the three year old colts that ran in the Kentucky Derby will try each other again in the Belmont. New "shooters" who have marked their time will try and ambush these top contenders down that long, grueling stretch at Belmont Park on Saturday. But one thing is for sure, which ever colt wins the Belmont Stakes, he might not be as fast as Secretariat, or even a Triple Crown winner, but when the "burn" kicks in, and he digs in a little deeper, he will always be considered courageous, and pass the test as Belmont Champion.
Tuesday, May 31, 2011
Culture of Cheaters
With the resignation of Ohio State football coach Jim Tressel for impropriety's and rules violations of NCAA regulations, I wondered why so many coaches and universities seem to fall on such hard times. I know coaches, as well as fans want to win so they push the envelope of opportunity and operate in as many grey areas as possible. Winning certainly is important, after all that's why they play the games, or is it about something else.
Have you noticed how much the big time college programs pay their coaches? Have you noticed how much money ESPN and other major networks pay college sports programs for the right to televise and broadcast their games? Have you noticed how much money the NCAA earns each year? It's billions!
As a fan I want the best facilities, the best coaches, and the best players. Before the NCAA hammered out their billion dollar contract with the major networks, there were these same impropriety's, coaches and fans still wanted to win, and every few years we would hear about a program that had crossed the line. Now it's a monthly occurrence. The NCAA claims that they have the best interest of the student athlete at heart, but only if it's not at their expense. They never think they are the bad guys, after all they are just looking out for the integrity of armature athletics. But somewhere along the way, while they were harboring a culture of integrity in athletics, what they didn't see was the culture of greed, and now they are stuck with lots of money and a culture of cheaters.
Have you noticed how much the big time college programs pay their coaches? Have you noticed how much money ESPN and other major networks pay college sports programs for the right to televise and broadcast their games? Have you noticed how much money the NCAA earns each year? It's billions!
As a fan I want the best facilities, the best coaches, and the best players. Before the NCAA hammered out their billion dollar contract with the major networks, there were these same impropriety's, coaches and fans still wanted to win, and every few years we would hear about a program that had crossed the line. Now it's a monthly occurrence. The NCAA claims that they have the best interest of the student athlete at heart, but only if it's not at their expense. They never think they are the bad guys, after all they are just looking out for the integrity of armature athletics. But somewhere along the way, while they were harboring a culture of integrity in athletics, what they didn't see was the culture of greed, and now they are stuck with lots of money and a culture of cheaters.
Thursday, May 26, 2011
Bluegrass Horses and Basketball: Baseball and Life
Bluegrass Horses and Basketball: Baseball and Life: "I am a big Cincinnati Reds fan, in fact I watch more games then I should, and the great thing about baseball is during the season there's a ..."
Baseball and Life
I am a big Cincinnati Reds fan, in fact I watch more games then I should, and the great thing about baseball is during the season there's a game every night. So, a baseball season is like life, you live it every day. When your team is playing well you are happy and content, but let them get in a loosing streak and every thing seems to go wrong. Much like life.
If you love the game as I do then you know what I am talking about. Some times in your everyday life things go well, which means you're nicer to your friends and family and your outlook is bright. But let one little thing go wrong and you think the whole world has got it in for you. Much like baseball.
It's my conclusion that baseball and life are somewhat intertwined. Baseball is a sport that let's you live an alternate life in the midst of your real one. The worst thing about this scenario is if both are going bad, well, you know what I mean. The thing about a baseball team is your fortunes can suddenly turn on a 3-1 fastball that goes sailing into the stands and all is well with the world. The real problem with your real life is you never seem to get enough turns at the plate. Just be prepared in both baseball and life that when your time comes at the plate that you are poised to hit one out of the park.
If you love the game as I do then you know what I am talking about. Some times in your everyday life things go well, which means you're nicer to your friends and family and your outlook is bright. But let one little thing go wrong and you think the whole world has got it in for you. Much like baseball.
It's my conclusion that baseball and life are somewhat intertwined. Baseball is a sport that let's you live an alternate life in the midst of your real one. The worst thing about this scenario is if both are going bad, well, you know what I mean. The thing about a baseball team is your fortunes can suddenly turn on a 3-1 fastball that goes sailing into the stands and all is well with the world. The real problem with your real life is you never seem to get enough turns at the plate. Just be prepared in both baseball and life that when your time comes at the plate that you are poised to hit one out of the park.
Tuesday, May 17, 2011
Preakness
The second leg of the Triple Crown comes as a surprise to most people. Most think it is a little race that is run after the Kentucky Derby and before the Belmont. Most don't know that the Preakness Stakes is two years older then the Derby, was named after the very first colt who won on the first day of racing at the fabled Maryland race course, Pimlico. That colt was named after a township in New Jersey and the rest they say is history. Heck the Preakness has not always been run at Pimlico and for that matter, in the state of Maryland. It has always been the little sibling sandwiched in between it's overachieving, more famous American icons.
The Preakness has managed to endure despite the deterioration of "Old Hilltop" and the declining state of horse racing. Tradition is a funny thing and come Saturday the Woodland Vase(sports most expensive trophy) will be dusted off, a blanket of Black eyed Susan's(the state flower of Maryland) will be draped, and they will paint the silks of the owner of the winner on a weather vain in the Pimlico infield. Thousands of horse racing fans will show up for the party, minus the pageantry of the Derby, but a high old time none the less. Oh, I almost forgot. A young colt will show up, one that just raced two weeks prior down in Louisville, and he will be the one that most have come to see. The Preakness has something that the Kentucky Derby doesn't have it has a Derby Champion running in it. The Preakness has only one potential Triple Crown Winner competing on Saturday, and that's what so much of this is all about. Can this special horse capture won of the great races in America on it's way to becoming a racing legend. Those hopes this Saturday are riding on, a young colt born in the bluegrass of Kentucky, and taking another giant stride toward horse racing immortality.
Go Animal Kingdom!
The Preakness has managed to endure despite the deterioration of "Old Hilltop" and the declining state of horse racing. Tradition is a funny thing and come Saturday the Woodland Vase(sports most expensive trophy) will be dusted off, a blanket of Black eyed Susan's(the state flower of Maryland) will be draped, and they will paint the silks of the owner of the winner on a weather vain in the Pimlico infield. Thousands of horse racing fans will show up for the party, minus the pageantry of the Derby, but a high old time none the less. Oh, I almost forgot. A young colt will show up, one that just raced two weeks prior down in Louisville, and he will be the one that most have come to see. The Preakness has something that the Kentucky Derby doesn't have it has a Derby Champion running in it. The Preakness has only one potential Triple Crown Winner competing on Saturday, and that's what so much of this is all about. Can this special horse capture won of the great races in America on it's way to becoming a racing legend. Those hopes this Saturday are riding on, a young colt born in the bluegrass of Kentucky, and taking another giant stride toward horse racing immortality.
Go Animal Kingdom!
Friday, May 6, 2011
Lilies and Roses
Flowers have always been synonymous with the great horse races. A garland of lilies for the fillies in the Kentucky Oaks, a blanket of roses for the Kentucky Derby. It seems quaint that beautiful flowers would come to symbolize some of the greatest sporting events in the world, but they have and a horse standing in the winners circle with a blanket of roses seems as natural as hoisting a trophy. I still have a rose from the blanket of Spend A Buck when he won in 1985. And who can forget jockey Calvin Borel tossing handfuls of roses in the air after he wins the Derby.
The wining owner of the Kentucky Oaks and the Kentucky Derby will get lots of money, as well as a trophy, but I bet the flowers from the garlands will be something they keep forever. With all the glamour that is associated with this great weekend, it might just be the quaintness of a flower that means the most.
This is our most cherished time in Kentucky, a time when the world renews itself with spring. That's why we love all things Derby and the promise of something special. Maybe a flower is the best symbol of that feeling.
The wining owner of the Kentucky Oaks and the Kentucky Derby will get lots of money, as well as a trophy, but I bet the flowers from the garlands will be something they keep forever. With all the glamour that is associated with this great weekend, it might just be the quaintness of a flower that means the most.
This is our most cherished time in Kentucky, a time when the world renews itself with spring. That's why we love all things Derby and the promise of something special. Maybe a flower is the best symbol of that feeling.
Tuesday, May 3, 2011
Jockey Race
We always remember the horse that wins the Kentucky Derby but sometimes the Jockey gets lost in the shuffle of memory. Most people can tell you who Calvin Borel is because he is fresh on our minds from winning three of the last four Derbies, but I bet you can't remember who won the one Derby that Calvin didn;t? It was Kent Desormeaux on Big Brown. However, when you get twenty starters, as we have in the last several Derbies the best horse does not always win. In fact it's the horse that gets the best trip that wears the garland of roses, and if he happens to be the best horse, so much the better.
The Derby attracts the best three year olds in the world but it also attracts the best jockeys as well. My friend Chris McCarron, Gary Stevens, Pat Day, Jerry Bailey, Jose Santos, and Mike Smith just to mention a few, shared the Winners Circle with such Legends of yesteryear as Bill Shoemaker, Angel Cordero, Jr., Bill Hartack, and Eddie Arcaro. These guys are household names in sports history. So, when we pick our Derby horse on Saturday just remember who the rider is because he may have as much to do with winning the race as the horse. No jockey can make a horse run faster than he can, the old saying goes "Did you ever see a jockey carry a horse across the finish line" but a little racing luck and a good ride can sure make a difference.
The Derby attracts the best three year olds in the world but it also attracts the best jockeys as well. My friend Chris McCarron, Gary Stevens, Pat Day, Jerry Bailey, Jose Santos, and Mike Smith just to mention a few, shared the Winners Circle with such Legends of yesteryear as Bill Shoemaker, Angel Cordero, Jr., Bill Hartack, and Eddie Arcaro. These guys are household names in sports history. So, when we pick our Derby horse on Saturday just remember who the rider is because he may have as much to do with winning the race as the horse. No jockey can make a horse run faster than he can, the old saying goes "Did you ever see a jockey carry a horse across the finish line" but a little racing luck and a good ride can sure make a difference.
Thursday, April 28, 2011
Derby Dreams
Since I was a small boy the Kentucky Derby has always figured prominent in my daily dreams. Growing up on a farm in Kentucky I listened to stories about legendary horses and their exploits in the most famous race of all. Citation, Whirlaway, Gallant Fox, and Count Fleet were magical names that stoked the fires of my imagination. I remember laying out a race track around the garden, just beyond the old farm house, and riding tobacco sticks through the dust and screaming the names of these titans of the turf. I know riding a pointed stick was probably as dangerous as if I had been riding Hill Gail to the finish line, but the memories are still vivid to this day. If it was a particular lucky day I coerced my cousins to mount a tobacco stick and the taste of the dust from those Derbies is still fresh in my mind.
I guess that's when I fell in love with the drama of the Kentucky Derby even though it was all conceived in a youthful mind. It wasn't long until I attended my first Derby in 1958, I was ten years old. My father was a National Guardsman who at that time had the high honor of guarding the rail at Churchill Downs on Derby Day. I remember dawn breaking and the twin spires of Churchill Downs rose from the mist as if in a dream. That moment did not disappoint. The rest of that day is a blur, Tim Tam won, and for me a life long passion for the Kentucky Derby still burns. I have been to many Derbies since that day and have raced many horses of my own at Churchill Downs, though not in the Derby, and I still get cold chills when I think back to that morning long ago when I first saw the twin spires. I suppose that's what the Derby is to me, a dream I still enjoy to this day, and come to think of it, that might be the best thing about the Kentucky Derby. After all if you could talk to everyone who ever attended or participated, I think they all would echo that the Derby is a magical dream.
I guess that's when I fell in love with the drama of the Kentucky Derby even though it was all conceived in a youthful mind. It wasn't long until I attended my first Derby in 1958, I was ten years old. My father was a National Guardsman who at that time had the high honor of guarding the rail at Churchill Downs on Derby Day. I remember dawn breaking and the twin spires of Churchill Downs rose from the mist as if in a dream. That moment did not disappoint. The rest of that day is a blur, Tim Tam won, and for me a life long passion for the Kentucky Derby still burns. I have been to many Derbies since that day and have raced many horses of my own at Churchill Downs, though not in the Derby, and I still get cold chills when I think back to that morning long ago when I first saw the twin spires. I suppose that's what the Derby is to me, a dream I still enjoy to this day, and come to think of it, that might be the best thing about the Kentucky Derby. After all if you could talk to everyone who ever attended or participated, I think they all would echo that the Derby is a magical dream.
Tuesday, April 26, 2011
Muddy Derby
The weather here in Kentucky has been anything but nice. Rain and clouds have been never ending and some of us are wondering if it will ever stop. We are just a little over a week before the 135th Kentucky Derby, one of the most glorious times in this state, and the picture for the Derby seems as muddy as the racetracks that these 3 year olds are training over. No super horse has emerged to capture the public's imagination and therefore the prospect of a Triple Crown Champion seems as dim as the weather.
Uncle Mo, the 2 year old champion was poised to shoulder the mantel of greatness until he hooked and lost to a mediocre field in New York in the Wood. Dialed In, a lightly raced winner of the Florida Derby is now the favorite but luke warm at best. The Factor was supposed to be the next great thing until he was beaten in the Arkansas, and now he's not even going to run. Archarcharch was the surprise winner and now looks like the sentimental favorite because of his connections, Pants On Fire, because of the name will get some play but nothing is solid there. Several other contenders are waiting to get their turn, hopefully in the sun, but are they contenders or pretenders?
So, the 135th Kentucky Derby is much like our weather cloudy and rainy. However, come May 7th at around late afternoon, we all hope the clouds part, the sun shines bright, and one of these young colts will dapple in the winner's circle at Churchill Downs, and maybe that colt's future will outshine a muddy start to Derby week.
Uncle Mo, the 2 year old champion was poised to shoulder the mantel of greatness until he hooked and lost to a mediocre field in New York in the Wood. Dialed In, a lightly raced winner of the Florida Derby is now the favorite but luke warm at best. The Factor was supposed to be the next great thing until he was beaten in the Arkansas, and now he's not even going to run. Archarcharch was the surprise winner and now looks like the sentimental favorite because of his connections, Pants On Fire, because of the name will get some play but nothing is solid there. Several other contenders are waiting to get their turn, hopefully in the sun, but are they contenders or pretenders?
So, the 135th Kentucky Derby is much like our weather cloudy and rainy. However, come May 7th at around late afternoon, we all hope the clouds part, the sun shines bright, and one of these young colts will dapple in the winner's circle at Churchill Downs, and maybe that colt's future will outshine a muddy start to Derby week.
Saturday, April 16, 2011
Triple Crown Trouble
We are three weeks away from the 137th Kentucky Derby and consequently embarking on another run for the Triple Crown. I often get asked the question of why has it been so long since there has been a Triple Crown winner. Thirty-two springs have come and gone since Affirmed accomplished the feat. There have been many near misses but none to ascend to the status of legends. There have been many great three year old racehorses in this time period, Big Brown, Smarty Jones, and Alysheba just to mention a few, but none could do it.
Could it be that it's just that hard? We ask a three year old racehorse, and folks that's a young thoroughbred, to run a distance, one mile and a quarter, a distance that none of them have ever gone before. We ask them to walk over before a crowd of somewhere near two hundred thousand, a multitude of which they have never seen or probably will never see again. Run the one and a quarter distance against competition of the best three year old racehorses on the planet, and win! Great right? Now lets take them two weeks later on a plane or a van to Baltimore, and pretty much do the same thing again except this time they are going to have to run a shorter distance of one mile and three-sixteenths, with tighter turns that requires more speed, and win! No problem?
Three weeks later let's go to New York ask them to run a mile and a half, a distance that none of them have ever run and will probably never run again, and all the while fresh horses that haven't been on the Triple Crown trail with you, having every intention of ambushing your dream. If this special horse manages to overcome this and win, well then his name gets spoken in reverence, because that's why we haven't had a Triple Crown winner in a generation, it's that hard to do.
Eleven horses have won the Triple Crown and one day another will come and when he does, know what trouble he had along the way to greatness.
Could it be that it's just that hard? We ask a three year old racehorse, and folks that's a young thoroughbred, to run a distance, one mile and a quarter, a distance that none of them have ever gone before. We ask them to walk over before a crowd of somewhere near two hundred thousand, a multitude of which they have never seen or probably will never see again. Run the one and a quarter distance against competition of the best three year old racehorses on the planet, and win! Great right? Now lets take them two weeks later on a plane or a van to Baltimore, and pretty much do the same thing again except this time they are going to have to run a shorter distance of one mile and three-sixteenths, with tighter turns that requires more speed, and win! No problem?
Three weeks later let's go to New York ask them to run a mile and a half, a distance that none of them have ever run and will probably never run again, and all the while fresh horses that haven't been on the Triple Crown trail with you, having every intention of ambushing your dream. If this special horse manages to overcome this and win, well then his name gets spoken in reverence, because that's why we haven't had a Triple Crown winner in a generation, it's that hard to do.
Eleven horses have won the Triple Crown and one day another will come and when he does, know what trouble he had along the way to greatness.
Thursday, April 7, 2011
Spring Formal
This Friday marks the 75th opening of the spring meet at Keeneland. For me it has always been one of the most anticipated days of the year. Basketball season is over, football is a distant memory, and baseball is one of those long affairs that allows us all to join at anytime. Keeneland is the renewal, the rebirth of all that holds promise in our lives. The trees are flowering, the tulips are blooming, that smell of grass, freshly cut makes Keeneland and Kentucky one of those fairytale lands that no poet can do justice to.
Each spring for 75 years the best horse, the best trainers, and the best jockeys have come to Keeneland with the hopes of securing that special place in the Sport of Kings, a Derby horse that will take them a little way up the road to Chuchill Downs on the first Saturday in May. For them horse racing immortality is just a clean trip and a very fast thoroughbred. Oh, but how rare and elusive those kind are. Luck may be their best friend along this treacherous road.
For the rest of us we go to Keeneland to see the beautiful horses and people, that posture on the lawns sporting parasols and ornamental hats. Somehow it makes us all feel dressed up. Yes there is something special about Keeneland, something special about the horses and the people, something special about the time of year, and something special about the feel of formality that no other racetrack in this country exudes.
Keeneland only lasts for a few days during April and it's not that far, it's just over the hill, right in our own backyards.
Each spring for 75 years the best horse, the best trainers, and the best jockeys have come to Keeneland with the hopes of securing that special place in the Sport of Kings, a Derby horse that will take them a little way up the road to Chuchill Downs on the first Saturday in May. For them horse racing immortality is just a clean trip and a very fast thoroughbred. Oh, but how rare and elusive those kind are. Luck may be their best friend along this treacherous road.
For the rest of us we go to Keeneland to see the beautiful horses and people, that posture on the lawns sporting parasols and ornamental hats. Somehow it makes us all feel dressed up. Yes there is something special about Keeneland, something special about the horses and the people, something special about the time of year, and something special about the feel of formality that no other racetrack in this country exudes.
Keeneland only lasts for a few days during April and it's not that far, it's just over the hill, right in our own backyards.
Sunday, April 3, 2011
Reflection
Basketball is officially over for me it ended last night a little after eleven when Kentucky lost in the National Semi-Final game. What a glorious fun season it was, 29-9 when most of us thought at the end of February that we would be lucky if we got in the NCAA tournament. One month later the Cats would sweep through the SEC tournament, revenge a loss to West Virginia, beat the over all number one seed Ohio St. and take care of our ancient rival North Carolina to make it to their 14th Final Four. Not bad!
Who among us didn't take pride in our Jorts and marvel at the wildly talented freshmen. Coach Cal had done what he said he would, restore Kentucky back to the top of the mountain and make us relevant again. Maybe they didn't win the 8th National Title but they did make us proud to be a fan of the Greatest Tradition In The History Of College Basketball. And with what Coach Cal has coming on the horizon the future looks very bright.
So, I put the lid on another basketball season and think about the future, I come to the realization that there are only 190 days until Big Blue Madness, and I don't know about you, but I can hardly wait.
Who among us didn't take pride in our Jorts and marvel at the wildly talented freshmen. Coach Cal had done what he said he would, restore Kentucky back to the top of the mountain and make us relevant again. Maybe they didn't win the 8th National Title but they did make us proud to be a fan of the Greatest Tradition In The History Of College Basketball. And with what Coach Cal has coming on the horizon the future looks very bright.
So, I put the lid on another basketball season and think about the future, I come to the realization that there are only 190 days until Big Blue Madness, and I don't know about you, but I can hardly wait.
Thursday, March 24, 2011
Survival
I have never heard so many Kentucky basketball fans stating their fears of playing the number one, over all seed Ohio St. Everwhere I go, on my radio show, Big Blue Nation seems to be afraid of another basketball team. Is this the fan base that I know and sometimes love? Where is your belief in Coach Cal, the players, and the joy of competition?
Could it be that the fans love their team so much, that they are afraid, not of Ohio St. but of just losing? Of course Kentucky could get beat by a better team, of course the fans will be heart broken, but what ever the outcome the fans should approach it with glee. I think there is a chance that Kentucky gets beat Friday night but I also believe there is a real possiblity that they won't. I personally relish the challenge to see one more great basketball game in which my team has a chance to survive and advance. When it's all played out, all glory is fleeting and it's always better to have loved and lost then to never have loved at all.
Don't be afraid!
Could it be that the fans love their team so much, that they are afraid, not of Ohio St. but of just losing? Of course Kentucky could get beat by a better team, of course the fans will be heart broken, but what ever the outcome the fans should approach it with glee. I think there is a chance that Kentucky gets beat Friday night but I also believe there is a real possiblity that they won't. I personally relish the challenge to see one more great basketball game in which my team has a chance to survive and advance. When it's all played out, all glory is fleeting and it's always better to have loved and lost then to never have loved at all.
Don't be afraid!
Thursday, March 17, 2011
The Sweet Sixteen
I attended the first session of the Kentucky High School Boys State Tournament yesterday, as I do just about every year. It's one of those don;t miss events that happens once a year. There are several of those for me, The Kentucky Derby, opening day of Keeneland, UK's first football and basketball games, and the Cincinnati Reds' opening. All of these events have one thing in common, they are all fun. But, when it comes to the Sweet Sixteen, it transcends all the others in fun because of the enthusiasm of the participants. It's not just the players and young people that are there, it's the joy that you see on the faces of the oldsters that help fill Rupp Arena.
I sat beside an elderly man, on oxygen, and attended by his nurse, from Prestonsburg, who was making his 50th straight visit to the tournament. I ask him about it and his eyes glowed with the passion of youth, and he proceeded to tell me about all of the games he had seen for half a century. He said the only thing that would ever keep him from coming was death. Wow! I spoke to another elderly lady, who is the wife of one of Lexington's oldest and most revered sports families, and she told me since 1942 she had only missed one state tournament. That's sixty-nine out of the last seventy years. So, I got to thinking, what is the allure?
Could it be the basketball, maybe, but there sure is an ample amount of that this time of year. Maybe it's the prospect of upsets, there sure are plenty of those as well. Maybe it just feels good to see old friends and renew a common bond that has existed, through basketball, for years. Maybe it's the young people making their first tournament appearance, their wide-eyed wonder, and shear joy of supporting their team. After all those young people have always been the same age since 1918, when the first state tournament started. Maybe that's the real reason all of us continue to enjoy watching high school kids play in the Sweet Sixteen, because for a few hours and days, we are all sixteen again.
I sat beside an elderly man, on oxygen, and attended by his nurse, from Prestonsburg, who was making his 50th straight visit to the tournament. I ask him about it and his eyes glowed with the passion of youth, and he proceeded to tell me about all of the games he had seen for half a century. He said the only thing that would ever keep him from coming was death. Wow! I spoke to another elderly lady, who is the wife of one of Lexington's oldest and most revered sports families, and she told me since 1942 she had only missed one state tournament. That's sixty-nine out of the last seventy years. So, I got to thinking, what is the allure?
Could it be the basketball, maybe, but there sure is an ample amount of that this time of year. Maybe it's the prospect of upsets, there sure are plenty of those as well. Maybe it just feels good to see old friends and renew a common bond that has existed, through basketball, for years. Maybe it's the young people making their first tournament appearance, their wide-eyed wonder, and shear joy of supporting their team. After all those young people have always been the same age since 1918, when the first state tournament started. Maybe that's the real reason all of us continue to enjoy watching high school kids play in the Sweet Sixteen, because for a few hours and days, we are all sixteen again.
Tuesday, March 15, 2011
Bluegrass Horses and Basketball: Tounament Tradition
Bluegrass Horses and Basketball: Tounament Tradition: "Is there little wonder why Kentucky basketball fans get so upset about seeding in the NCAA basketball tournament? There shouldn't be, ..."
Tounament Tradition
Is there little wonder why Kentucky basketball fans get so upset about seeding in the NCAA basketball tournament? There shouldn't be, considering Kentucky is making their record breaking 51st appearance, playing in their record breaking 147th game, and seeking their 102nd win, which if it occurs, would be a record as well. Since that first win over Illinois back in 1942, Kentucky fans have marked time by what occurs in March. Most fans can tell you where they were, who they were with, and certainly who the Wildcats played, win or loose. So, when it comes to a little thing like seeding, yes, its that important!
In 70 years of the NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament, Kentucky has had many glorious moments, not counting the 7 National Championships. It's also safe to say there have been more sad moments[reference Christian Laettner 1992]. But, through it all, the anticipation of another tournament run has made everything worthwhile. The wins the looses, the Final Fours, the great plays, and the heartbreak, makes your heart race a bit faster, and ultimately, is what keeps you watching.
So, when I hear national sports figures, and other fan bases, say, "Oh it's just those "bad" Kentucky fans crying about their placement," it makes me proud that Kentucky fans care enough to complain. Most fans are just happy they get a chance to play in the tournament, Kentucky fans expect to, and expect to win. Is that a little overboard? Perhaps, but that's what tradition is all about, expecting something, and often times getting it. Maybe Kentucky didn't get the seed they deserved, maybe they will have to play the number one over all seed earlier then they expected, and maybe they won;t win. But, if they do, I bet you will remember where you were, who you were with, and that game will live in your memory forever.
In 70 years of the NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament, Kentucky has had many glorious moments, not counting the 7 National Championships. It's also safe to say there have been more sad moments[reference Christian Laettner 1992]. But, through it all, the anticipation of another tournament run has made everything worthwhile. The wins the looses, the Final Fours, the great plays, and the heartbreak, makes your heart race a bit faster, and ultimately, is what keeps you watching.
So, when I hear national sports figures, and other fan bases, say, "Oh it's just those "bad" Kentucky fans crying about their placement," it makes me proud that Kentucky fans care enough to complain. Most fans are just happy they get a chance to play in the tournament, Kentucky fans expect to, and expect to win. Is that a little overboard? Perhaps, but that's what tradition is all about, expecting something, and often times getting it. Maybe Kentucky didn't get the seed they deserved, maybe they will have to play the number one over all seed earlier then they expected, and maybe they won;t win. But, if they do, I bet you will remember where you were, who you were with, and that game will live in your memory forever.
Wednesday, March 9, 2011
Invasion
This week marks the beginning of a curious event that happens every year at this time, the start of March Madness. The SEC tournament in Atlanta, followed by the biggest dance of all, the NCAA Championship. Teams from all around the country, along with their fans, have that little extra step of anticipation. Most will end in sadness, some will behold unbelievable highs, and gut wrenching lows, but all will study over their brackets with the detail of an IRS form.
Which brings me to the dedication of the so called Big Blue Nation, and their unyielding excitement of this magical time of year. Fans from all around the United States are waiting to see where their favorite team will be going, and if they will be able to watch their team play on TV while at work. And, if that favorite team gets to the finals of the conference tournament, can they figure out some way to get there. That's what most of the country is doing. Not the Big Blue Nation. They are hovering in their bunkers, pouring over the brackets, trying to figure out the possibilities of where their beloved Wildcats might be. You see, in Big Blue Nation, they are planning an invasion.
Thousands of road warriors of the Big Blue Nation are at this very moment hovering in their bunkers with maps, contingencies, airline schedules, and a war plan on how to defeat the enemy. They will not let their boys go into action with out the full support of every blue blooded fan that has knelt at the alter of Rupp Arena. No, this is a team effort, a war effort, glories will be told for years to come, because of what is happening in these bunkers, that dot the country side of Big Blue Nation.
As the madness begins work efficiency drops, children are neglected, and the state of Kentucky is pretty much left on its own. Catlanta, and points elsewhere are laying in food and drink supplies, because they know, the siege is upon them. Hotel employees in these far off places are chewing on their finger nails and shaking in their blazers. Scare tactics and intimidation is a big part of any war effort. Big Blue Nation comes to win!
So, Big Blue Nation, send your uniforms to the cleaners, sharpen your noise makers, pull out your flags, and lets get ready to rumble. Those lesser fan bases don't have a chance, Big Blue Nation comes every March with one thing in mind, the total destruction of the college basketball landscape.
Go Big Blue!!
Which brings me to the dedication of the so called Big Blue Nation, and their unyielding excitement of this magical time of year. Fans from all around the United States are waiting to see where their favorite team will be going, and if they will be able to watch their team play on TV while at work. And, if that favorite team gets to the finals of the conference tournament, can they figure out some way to get there. That's what most of the country is doing. Not the Big Blue Nation. They are hovering in their bunkers, pouring over the brackets, trying to figure out the possibilities of where their beloved Wildcats might be. You see, in Big Blue Nation, they are planning an invasion.
Thousands of road warriors of the Big Blue Nation are at this very moment hovering in their bunkers with maps, contingencies, airline schedules, and a war plan on how to defeat the enemy. They will not let their boys go into action with out the full support of every blue blooded fan that has knelt at the alter of Rupp Arena. No, this is a team effort, a war effort, glories will be told for years to come, because of what is happening in these bunkers, that dot the country side of Big Blue Nation.
As the madness begins work efficiency drops, children are neglected, and the state of Kentucky is pretty much left on its own. Catlanta, and points elsewhere are laying in food and drink supplies, because they know, the siege is upon them. Hotel employees in these far off places are chewing on their finger nails and shaking in their blazers. Scare tactics and intimidation is a big part of any war effort. Big Blue Nation comes to win!
So, Big Blue Nation, send your uniforms to the cleaners, sharpen your noise makers, pull out your flags, and lets get ready to rumble. Those lesser fan bases don't have a chance, Big Blue Nation comes every March with one thing in mind, the total destruction of the college basketball landscape.
Go Big Blue!!
Friday, March 4, 2011
Tennessee Waltz
This weekend is the annual border war in Knoxville with Tennessee. Tennessee has already been to Lexington and fell. This game has the added value of seedings for the upcoming SEC tournament, as well as the regular season finally for both teams.
Since I can remember the sight of Tennessee orange has almost made me sick. When I was a small boy the thought of Ray Mears taunting Kentucky fans, his players flaunting their circus like act of orange and white basketball, being spun while riding unicycles, was more then my young mind could process. So, a great dislike for all things Tennessee basketball was a natural progression. I still remember a t-shirt my little sister wore proclaiming " I'm for Kentucky and whoever is playing Tennessee."
Still it can't be denied that Tennessee is our oldest rival and you must appreciate the history that has lived among these two great fan bases. Even that despicable song Rocky Top was first introduced to the world by a Kentucky group, the Osbornes. If I had to pick one song that I would never want to hear again it would be that one.
Louisville to some extent has surpassed Tennessee as the most hated rival of most Kentucky fans. Florida is probably the fiercest rival for most fans, among the SEC. My partner on the Sports Huddle on ESPN Sports Radio 1300, Chris Cross, hates Billy Donovan and Florida passionately. But, for us older fans I think it will always be Tennessee. To a great extent we have Bruce Pearl to thank for that. Not only did he take up the orange jacket of Ray Mears, he also flaunts the Kentucky fans, and even comes in to our state and steals some pretty good basketball talent.
So, with the Big Orange of Tennessee looming on the horizon, I just felt I had to get this off my chest. These things are what makes basketball so much fun for me, and in way, thank goodness for Tennessee!
Oh, I forgot to tell you. I don't like that dog, either.
Since I can remember the sight of Tennessee orange has almost made me sick. When I was a small boy the thought of Ray Mears taunting Kentucky fans, his players flaunting their circus like act of orange and white basketball, being spun while riding unicycles, was more then my young mind could process. So, a great dislike for all things Tennessee basketball was a natural progression. I still remember a t-shirt my little sister wore proclaiming " I'm for Kentucky and whoever is playing Tennessee."
Still it can't be denied that Tennessee is our oldest rival and you must appreciate the history that has lived among these two great fan bases. Even that despicable song Rocky Top was first introduced to the world by a Kentucky group, the Osbornes. If I had to pick one song that I would never want to hear again it would be that one.
Louisville to some extent has surpassed Tennessee as the most hated rival of most Kentucky fans. Florida is probably the fiercest rival for most fans, among the SEC. My partner on the Sports Huddle on ESPN Sports Radio 1300, Chris Cross, hates Billy Donovan and Florida passionately. But, for us older fans I think it will always be Tennessee. To a great extent we have Bruce Pearl to thank for that. Not only did he take up the orange jacket of Ray Mears, he also flaunts the Kentucky fans, and even comes in to our state and steals some pretty good basketball talent.
So, with the Big Orange of Tennessee looming on the horizon, I just felt I had to get this off my chest. These things are what makes basketball so much fun for me, and in way, thank goodness for Tennessee!
Oh, I forgot to tell you. I don't like that dog, either.
Tuesday, March 1, 2011
Josh Harrellson's jersey will probably never hang in the rafters at Rupp Arena, that lofty place belongs to ghosts and legends of Kentucky Basketball. In a few years the next generation of Kentucky Basketball fans will have to resort to the record book to find out who he was. Josh will join that multitude of players who came and went without the fanfare that has accompanied those who's banners do hang in Rupp.
Josh Harrellson joins those players who spent just as much time in practice and study, trying to be the best they could, while helping those legends on to riches and glory. We all look on in adoration when our heroes take the floor, and envy the road trips that they take, to sometimes exotic places to play before thousands of fans, and often times huge television audiences. I once had the experience of traveling with the Kentucky Women's Basketball team as their analyst for radio. Let me tell you, each away trip is an ordeal. Every moment is orchestrated, each meal is scheduled, and every player is herded through, with only one thing in mind, give the best you have to win.
When Josh Harrellson gets honored on Senior Night he will have earned it. Playing basketball at the level of Kentucky Basketball is work, plain and simple. It's a job and most could never give the sacrifice that these players have given. Josh has earned his night and just like hundreds before him he will be forgotten in time. But on this night it sure will be fun to remember the great game he had against Louisville, the big smiles he flashed, and the pleasure we got from rooting for him.
Josh Harrellson will probably never play in the NBA and earn millions of dollars. He will never be thought of like those banners of the greats that hang in Rupp Arena, because when it really comes down to it, he's just like us. Nothing wrong with just being good and not great. After all, that's what Josh Harrellson is, just a man of the people, he's just one of us.
Josh Harrellson joins those players who spent just as much time in practice and study, trying to be the best they could, while helping those legends on to riches and glory. We all look on in adoration when our heroes take the floor, and envy the road trips that they take, to sometimes exotic places to play before thousands of fans, and often times huge television audiences. I once had the experience of traveling with the Kentucky Women's Basketball team as their analyst for radio. Let me tell you, each away trip is an ordeal. Every moment is orchestrated, each meal is scheduled, and every player is herded through, with only one thing in mind, give the best you have to win.
When Josh Harrellson gets honored on Senior Night he will have earned it. Playing basketball at the level of Kentucky Basketball is work, plain and simple. It's a job and most could never give the sacrifice that these players have given. Josh has earned his night and just like hundreds before him he will be forgotten in time. But on this night it sure will be fun to remember the great game he had against Louisville, the big smiles he flashed, and the pleasure we got from rooting for him.
Josh Harrellson will probably never play in the NBA and earn millions of dollars. He will never be thought of like those banners of the greats that hang in Rupp Arena, because when it really comes down to it, he's just like us. Nothing wrong with just being good and not great. After all, that's what Josh Harrellson is, just a man of the people, he's just one of us.
Thursday, February 24, 2011
School Daze
This week starts the insanity that is district basketball tournament action in Kentucky. The flowers are starting to creep out, the grass is somewhat greener, and hope springs eternal in the eye of every high school player in the state. This time next week most will have played their last game of basketball, and the next week, just about as many will have, as well. But, for this small window, glory and immortality is alive with promise.
After all these years, I remember, as if it was yesterday, the thrill of the fans, and the "butterflies" that came with that one moment of competition. Caravans of school buses, followed by many more cars, wended their way through the back country of rural Kentucky, knowing you would probably lose, but just maybe, you might be witness to something great. I still hear the screams of the crowd and the friendly faces of the cheerleaders, seemingly the only allies you had. I still remember the tears that followed the inevitable loss that all but very few will never feel. My one consolation was, that at least tomorrow I could start thinking about baseball season.
So, if you want to recapture some of the nostalgia that lives in the back of all of our minds, go to a game, there's surely one playing near you. Feel the excitement, enjoy the pageantry, smell the odor of apprehension, and watch the show. Each spring the same scenario plays out at a high school gym near you. You might be surprised at the memories that come storming back.
After all these years, I remember, as if it was yesterday, the thrill of the fans, and the "butterflies" that came with that one moment of competition. Caravans of school buses, followed by many more cars, wended their way through the back country of rural Kentucky, knowing you would probably lose, but just maybe, you might be witness to something great. I still hear the screams of the crowd and the friendly faces of the cheerleaders, seemingly the only allies you had. I still remember the tears that followed the inevitable loss that all but very few will never feel. My one consolation was, that at least tomorrow I could start thinking about baseball season.
So, if you want to recapture some of the nostalgia that lives in the back of all of our minds, go to a game, there's surely one playing near you. Feel the excitement, enjoy the pageantry, smell the odor of apprehension, and watch the show. Each spring the same scenario plays out at a high school gym near you. You might be surprised at the memories that come storming back.
Sunday, February 20, 2011
American Hero
I have never been a huge NASCAR fan, but every year I do tune in and enjoy the Daytona 500. The start of that race is as exciting as any thing in sports. It sometimes gets a bit tedious and long, especially if there are lots of caution flags and restarts. This years race was like that. Until the end.
All of the greatest drivers in the world took their shot at victory and came up short, then from out of nowhere a twenty year old rookie, who had never run in "The Great American Race" shocked the racing world. Trevor Bayne, a young man who just turned twenty yesterday, grabbed the lead and held off everyone to pull one of the most stunning upsets in NASCAR history. He becomes the youngest winner of the Daytona 500 by five years. Jeff Gordon being the youngest previously. Many of the greatest drivers have never won this race and many more never will, but on this sun-drenched day in Daytona Florida miracles still happen.
This is why I love sports. Sports are one of the few places where fairy tales can come true and we all can get reminded that anything is possible. So Trevor Bayne, you transcended folklore today, and gave us what few things other then sports can do. You, young Trevor Bayne, leaped into that rare class in sports of American Hero!
Thanks, I hope your ride continues.
All of the greatest drivers in the world took their shot at victory and came up short, then from out of nowhere a twenty year old rookie, who had never run in "The Great American Race" shocked the racing world. Trevor Bayne, a young man who just turned twenty yesterday, grabbed the lead and held off everyone to pull one of the most stunning upsets in NASCAR history. He becomes the youngest winner of the Daytona 500 by five years. Jeff Gordon being the youngest previously. Many of the greatest drivers have never won this race and many more never will, but on this sun-drenched day in Daytona Florida miracles still happen.
This is why I love sports. Sports are one of the few places where fairy tales can come true and we all can get reminded that anything is possible. So Trevor Bayne, you transcended folklore today, and gave us what few things other then sports can do. You, young Trevor Bayne, leaped into that rare class in sports of American Hero!
Thanks, I hope your ride continues.
Tuesday, February 15, 2011
Love Is In The Air
Yesterday was Valentine's Day and today is one of my favorite days of the year, February 15, the official beginning of thoroughbred breeding season. You don't have to be in the horse business to appreciate the significance of today. What the start of breeding season means here in central Kentucky is the unofficial start of spring. A time of new hope, a time to put away the past and look to the rejuvenation of life.
I didn't mean to get all philosophical on you, but its been a long cold winter, and the promise of spring is one of those things that brings a smile to everyone. Oh sure, we will have to put up with the multitude of horse vans and trailers that crowd the narrow lanes of the back roads of horse country, carrying their precious loads of amorous mares. The gleam in a stallions eye awaits their arrival. Eleven months from this mating, a potential foal could stand on wobbly legs and find its way to glory, down the road.
There is promise in this ritual, taking place every year at this time, inside the plank and stone fences, that make this a magical land. Many Kentuckians hurry through the country side and never know that love is in the air, just up each and every lane. That's what this day means to me. The promise of spring time and the promise of something new.
I didn't mean to get all philosophical on you, but its been a long cold winter, and the promise of spring is one of those things that brings a smile to everyone. Oh sure, we will have to put up with the multitude of horse vans and trailers that crowd the narrow lanes of the back roads of horse country, carrying their precious loads of amorous mares. The gleam in a stallions eye awaits their arrival. Eleven months from this mating, a potential foal could stand on wobbly legs and find its way to glory, down the road.
There is promise in this ritual, taking place every year at this time, inside the plank and stone fences, that make this a magical land. Many Kentuckians hurry through the country side and never know that love is in the air, just up each and every lane. That's what this day means to me. The promise of spring time and the promise of something new.
Wednesday, February 9, 2011
Box of Chocalates
Do you remember the old Tom Hanks' movie "Forest Gump"? One of the most famous lines from that film was "Life is like a box of chocolates. you just never know what you're going to get." Watching Terrance Jones play basketball for the Kentucky Wildcats, is much like that. From one game to the next, you just never know what you are going to get.
Terrance Jones is a great talent. At times he looks like an All American, the next time he looks like what he is, a freshmen, who is trying to find his way in the world of big time college basketball. He reminds me of a young thoroughbred colt, breath taking speed one moment, bolting to the outside rail, or throwing his rider, the next. That's Terrance Jones.
Coach Cal rides him pretty hard at times and you wonder if he can take it? Just as suddenly, that talent comes out, and he slams a in your face dunk, and Coach Cal can't remember why he was mad at him to start with. He confounds you with his immature attitude,and bravado, and you ponder what's he going to do next. One thing's for sure, this team needs him to bring it every game. Many people speculate that he needs another year to harness the great talent that he so obviously has. The NBA loves his potential, he is in the top ten in all of the mock drafts. My guess is he will probably enter the draft. Which means, we better hope he gets it together by the end of the season.
Terrance Jones is like a box of chocolates, any one you choose is good. But, when you grab one of those special pieces from the box, your mouth starts to water, a smile creases your lips, well, it's just breath taking.
Terrance Jones is a great talent. At times he looks like an All American, the next time he looks like what he is, a freshmen, who is trying to find his way in the world of big time college basketball. He reminds me of a young thoroughbred colt, breath taking speed one moment, bolting to the outside rail, or throwing his rider, the next. That's Terrance Jones.
Coach Cal rides him pretty hard at times and you wonder if he can take it? Just as suddenly, that talent comes out, and he slams a in your face dunk, and Coach Cal can't remember why he was mad at him to start with. He confounds you with his immature attitude,and bravado, and you ponder what's he going to do next. One thing's for sure, this team needs him to bring it every game. Many people speculate that he needs another year to harness the great talent that he so obviously has. The NBA loves his potential, he is in the top ten in all of the mock drafts. My guess is he will probably enter the draft. Which means, we better hope he gets it together by the end of the season.
Terrance Jones is like a box of chocolates, any one you choose is good. But, when you grab one of those special pieces from the box, your mouth starts to water, a smile creases your lips, well, it's just breath taking.
Friday, February 4, 2011
Reality TV
I have never been much of a fan of the television genre of reality TV. I will confess to investing in one season of America Idol, to which, to this day I regret. Some how, this has become the way most Americans pass time and conversation. Which brings us to sports. I never felt I needed reality TV, when all I had to do was tune in to whatever sporting event, that happened to be playing each night, and weekend.
This Sunday is Super Bowl XLV, and it got me to wondering why 150 million Americans will spend millions of dollars, devote as many hours of their time, and generally, just stop their lives for several hours on Sunday. Not every one who gets so excited about the Super Bowl are football fans. In fact, most probably didn't even know who was playing until this week. Now they are experts on every thing, from Ben Roethlisberger's off the field problems, to Troy Polamalu's hair.
Maybe the Super Bowl is not just about football. Maybe there is more to this Sunday that we just don't get. I hear more people say they watch it for the commericals, but yet those same commericals will be aired for weeks to follow, and don't ever forget YouTube. Others say, the half time show is the best spectacle in entertainment. Remember the wardrobe malfunction? You always hear, "its about the party and the food," it is the second biggest day of eating next to Thanksgiving. What is it about the Super Bowl that makes it one of the biggest days of the year?
So, this got me to thinking about what it is about America that makes us watch. I have concluded, it's our thirst for reality TV. The Super Bowl is all about that. Two great fan bases are as excited as any kid at Christmas, and after the game some are going to be heart broken. Many are going to ride a high that will last, at least into next week. After all it is the middle of winter, and spring seems like a dream. Yep, the Super Bowl is a huge dose of reality TV, at least for America
As for the nearly billion people that will watch it around the world, well, that's a whole different story. Maybe many of them hate America, but you just can't deny, they sure do like to watch us.
This Sunday is Super Bowl XLV, and it got me to wondering why 150 million Americans will spend millions of dollars, devote as many hours of their time, and generally, just stop their lives for several hours on Sunday. Not every one who gets so excited about the Super Bowl are football fans. In fact, most probably didn't even know who was playing until this week. Now they are experts on every thing, from Ben Roethlisberger's off the field problems, to Troy Polamalu's hair.
Maybe the Super Bowl is not just about football. Maybe there is more to this Sunday that we just don't get. I hear more people say they watch it for the commericals, but yet those same commericals will be aired for weeks to follow, and don't ever forget YouTube. Others say, the half time show is the best spectacle in entertainment. Remember the wardrobe malfunction? You always hear, "its about the party and the food," it is the second biggest day of eating next to Thanksgiving. What is it about the Super Bowl that makes it one of the biggest days of the year?
So, this got me to thinking about what it is about America that makes us watch. I have concluded, it's our thirst for reality TV. The Super Bowl is all about that. Two great fan bases are as excited as any kid at Christmas, and after the game some are going to be heart broken. Many are going to ride a high that will last, at least into next week. After all it is the middle of winter, and spring seems like a dream. Yep, the Super Bowl is a huge dose of reality TV, at least for America
As for the nearly billion people that will watch it around the world, well, that's a whole different story. Maybe many of them hate America, but you just can't deny, they sure do like to watch us.
Wednesday, February 2, 2011
Stormy Night in Mississippi
The young Kentucky basketball team could not close out a win on the road in Oxford, Mississippi last night. There is nothing new about that, its just frustrating, seeing no production out of the upper classmen, Miller, Liggins, and Harrellson. Experience is supposed to be the thing that gets it done in close games and on the road, but on this team the freshmen are the fearless ones, that at least, show some leadership and a will to win.
Coach Cal has been preaching all season about this and apparently it falls on deaf ears. Case in point was in the last few seconds, with Kentucky clinging to a one point lead, Darius Miller passed up a wide open shot, and than the Cats fumbled away the possession with a shot clock violation, and boom, made three pointer, another loss on the road to an inferior team.
Florida looms on Saturday, in Gainsville, and it makes you wonder if the training wheels aren't running off of the Big Blue Express. Leadership is never thrust upon you, most of the time you have to reach out and take it. Until the older players on this team grasp this, I am afraid expectations are going to fall far short, this basketball season. Still, watching these freshman perform, always gives you hope.
That's the way I see it on a stormy night in Mississippi and Kentucky.
Mikey Cameron
Coach Cal has been preaching all season about this and apparently it falls on deaf ears. Case in point was in the last few seconds, with Kentucky clinging to a one point lead, Darius Miller passed up a wide open shot, and than the Cats fumbled away the possession with a shot clock violation, and boom, made three pointer, another loss on the road to an inferior team.
Florida looms on Saturday, in Gainsville, and it makes you wonder if the training wheels aren't running off of the Big Blue Express. Leadership is never thrust upon you, most of the time you have to reach out and take it. Until the older players on this team grasp this, I am afraid expectations are going to fall far short, this basketball season. Still, watching these freshman perform, always gives you hope.
That's the way I see it on a stormy night in Mississippi and Kentucky.
Mikey Cameron
Saturday, January 29, 2011
Bluegrass Horses and Basketball: Kentucky Tradition and Rupp Arena
Bluegrass Horses and Basketball: Kentucky Tradition and Rupp Arena: "Tradition means the handing down of beliefs, customs, and information from generation to generation. That pretty much defines Kentucky..."
Friday, January 28, 2011
Kentucky Tradition and Rupp Arena
Tradition means the handing down of beliefs, customs, and information from generation to generation. That pretty much defines Kentucky basketball. Generations of fans, including myself, were schooled on the lore of Kentucky basketball, and I, like the generation before me, have passed it on to the next. Rupp Arena is a huge part of that tradition, just as Alumni Gym, and Memorial Coliseum were before it, for those generations.
A controversy is starting over the fact that we need a new basketball palace to replace Rupp, that Rupp is outdated, dingy, and just outlived its time. It seems much of this is due to the fact that Louisville has built a brand spanking new venue that does make Rupp pale in comparison. The Yum Center, don't you just love the name, has suites, many different kinds of bars, restaurants, game rooms, and so on and so forth. The one thing it doesn't have yet is personality, the kind of atmosphere that makes the hair stand up on the back of your neck, when you walk in. Freedom Hall had history, personality, yes, tradition. This is not to say that the Yum Center, might one day, have tons of tradition, just as you might say if we built a new arena for Kentucky basketball, might not have the same goose bump atmosphere as Rupp, but one thing is for sure, at this moment, Rupp has it right now!
This generation seems ready and willing to cast off anything that's not shinny and pretty, just to satisfy the microwave mentality that is prevalent in society. What would be wrong with remodeling the old arena, making some changes, that allows it to move into the esthetics's, that it takes to impress the next keepers of the flame that is Kentucky basketball. Tradition is not always served by change for the sake of change, or just because your neighbor has something that you don't have. Tradition is having something that very few have, if any.
A controversy is starting over the fact that we need a new basketball palace to replace Rupp, that Rupp is outdated, dingy, and just outlived its time. It seems much of this is due to the fact that Louisville has built a brand spanking new venue that does make Rupp pale in comparison. The Yum Center, don't you just love the name, has suites, many different kinds of bars, restaurants, game rooms, and so on and so forth. The one thing it doesn't have yet is personality, the kind of atmosphere that makes the hair stand up on the back of your neck, when you walk in. Freedom Hall had history, personality, yes, tradition. This is not to say that the Yum Center, might one day, have tons of tradition, just as you might say if we built a new arena for Kentucky basketball, might not have the same goose bump atmosphere as Rupp, but one thing is for sure, at this moment, Rupp has it right now!
This generation seems ready and willing to cast off anything that's not shinny and pretty, just to satisfy the microwave mentality that is prevalent in society. What would be wrong with remodeling the old arena, making some changes, that allows it to move into the esthetics's, that it takes to impress the next keepers of the flame that is Kentucky basketball. Tradition is not always served by change for the sake of change, or just because your neighbor has something that you don't have. Tradition is having something that very few have, if any.
Wednesday, January 26, 2011
Bluegrass Horses and Basketball: One and Done
Bluegrass Horses and Basketball: One and Done: "I just received the latest mock draft from the NBA, and as usual, several Kentucky players are mentioned in the first round. Enes Kant..."
One and Done
I just received the latest mock draft from the NBA, and as usual, several Kentucky players are mentioned in the first round. Enes Kanter is number five, but we will leave that for another time. Terrance Jones is number six and Brandon Knight is number nineteen. Deron Lamb is not projected at this time to go in the first round, but he could only need a big run in the tounament, to gain entry.
Coach Cal proclaimed last years coup in the first round of the draft, as the greatest night in the history of Kentucky Basketball. I don't know about that, but it did leave us fans with a hollow feeling about the future. Now it looks like something like that could happen again. Don't get me wrong, I'am just as excited as any one when we year that Cal has the number one recruiting class lined up again for next year, but it seems we never get to know these players. One year with Kentucky and ten years with an NBA team, feels to much like a flirt, rather then a good relationship.
Well, thats the way its going to be, and I will just have to learn to stop and enjoy the flirtation with greatness, because you see. I still remember the last years of Tubby and the Billy Gillispie tenure, when all it seemed we ever did was take the average girls to the prom.
Mikey Cameron
Coach Cal proclaimed last years coup in the first round of the draft, as the greatest night in the history of Kentucky Basketball. I don't know about that, but it did leave us fans with a hollow feeling about the future. Now it looks like something like that could happen again. Don't get me wrong, I'am just as excited as any one when we year that Cal has the number one recruiting class lined up again for next year, but it seems we never get to know these players. One year with Kentucky and ten years with an NBA team, feels to much like a flirt, rather then a good relationship.
Well, thats the way its going to be, and I will just have to learn to stop and enjoy the flirtation with greatness, because you see. I still remember the last years of Tubby and the Billy Gillispie tenure, when all it seemed we ever did was take the average girls to the prom.
Mikey Cameron
Sunday, January 23, 2011
Bluegrass Horses and Basketball: Road Win and the NBA
Bluegrass Horses and Basketball: Road Win and the NBA: "The young Kentucky basketball team won its first SEC road game yesterday and a veteran seemed to find himself. Darius Milller played li..."
Road Win and the NBA
The young Kentucky basketball team won its first SEC road game yesterday and a veteran seemed to find himself. Darius Milller played like many of us had expected him to play ever since he first put on the uniform. Of course he has been a pretender before, but none the less he showed what had made him Kentucky's Mr. Basketball and that was very good to see.
I had a question on my radio show on Friday, The Sports Huddle on ESPN Sports Radio 1300, about which of the current Cats, at this moment in time could make an NBA roster. Is Terrance Jones ready with his thundering dunks or is he still immature? Perhaps Brandon Knight, or could it be Darius Miller or DeAndre Liggins? I sat beside a scout for the Golden State Warriors and his assessment was that although several players from this current squad could one day be ready for the league at this moment only one could transition at this moment in time, and that player is DeAndre Liggins!
He said he played the kind of defense right now, and if he could make some drives to the basket, he could play for years in the NBA. This all remains to be seen, there is a lot of games to played in this season, but it is some food for thought.
Mikey Cameron
I had a question on my radio show on Friday, The Sports Huddle on ESPN Sports Radio 1300, about which of the current Cats, at this moment in time could make an NBA roster. Is Terrance Jones ready with his thundering dunks or is he still immature? Perhaps Brandon Knight, or could it be Darius Miller or DeAndre Liggins? I sat beside a scout for the Golden State Warriors and his assessment was that although several players from this current squad could one day be ready for the league at this moment only one could transition at this moment in time, and that player is DeAndre Liggins!
He said he played the kind of defense right now, and if he could make some drives to the basket, he could play for years in the NBA. This all remains to be seen, there is a lot of games to played in this season, but it is some food for thought.
Mikey Cameron
Friday, January 21, 2011
Kentucky bounce back at South Carolina
Relax Wildcat fans, the season isn't over, just a bump in the SEC road. Iam not pretending there aren't more of them ahead, but for now this young team is having trouble shedding their training wheels on the road. It was embarrasing for Cal when he was caught on national tv using foul language and particularly embarrasing for Terrance Jones, but this is all in the growing pains that will eventually temper and harden these young Cats.
I think the Cats go into Columbia with resolve and hand the Gamecocks a loss. Remember the number 1 ranking went away there last year. Should a repeat of the last two road trips repeat, well just relax, there's a long way to go and they are getting more mature as time passes. One thing is for sure, no one has had more experiance with training wheels then Coach Cal.
I think the Cats go into Columbia with resolve and hand the Gamecocks a loss. Remember the number 1 ranking went away there last year. Should a repeat of the last two road trips repeat, well just relax, there's a long way to go and they are getting more mature as time passes. One thing is for sure, no one has had more experiance with training wheels then Coach Cal.
Tuesday, January 18, 2011
Bluegrass Horses and Basketball: Horse of the Year
Bluegrass Horses and Basketball: Horse of the Year: "To some measure justice was served last night at the 40th annual Eclipse Awards. Zenyatta denied horse of the year last year was named..."
Bluegrass Horses and Basketball: Bluegrass Horses and Basketball: Horse of the Year...
Bluegrass Horses and Basketball: Bluegrass Horses and Basketball: Horse of the Year...: "Bluegrass Horses and Basketball: Horse of the Year: "To some measure justice was served last night at the 40th annual Eclipse Awards. ..."
Bluegrass Horses and Basketball: Horse of the Year
Bluegrass Horses and Basketball: Horse of the Year: "To some measure justice was served last night at the 40th annual Eclipse Awards. Zenyatta denied horse of the year last year was named..."
Horse of the Year
To some measure justice was served last night at the 40th annual Eclipse Awards. Zenyatta denied horse of the year last year was named this year. A great case could be made that Blame may have been more deserving, but none can deny the conribution that the great race mare achieved, more than compensated. Sometimes history is a powerful anecdote to the present.
Had Zenyatta not won we would always look back and say, 2010 was the year of Zenyatta. Other great horses will follow, but we can all say I was there for the year of Zenyatta.
Go out and multiply!
Mikey Cameron
Had Zenyatta not won we would always look back and say, 2010 was the year of Zenyatta. Other great horses will follow, but we can all say I was there for the year of Zenyatta.
Go out and multiply!
Mikey Cameron
Sunday, January 16, 2011
Tommorow night is the Eclipse Awards, horseracing's highest honors. I have thought long and hard about who I would vote for if I had a voter for Horse of the Year, and although either Blame and Zenyatta would be great choices, it makes the choice that much harder.
The award is for Horse of the Year, not a life time achievment award. That said, I don't think I have seen the excitement I saw for the great filly, Zenyatta. Blame is a great champion and would be a deserving HOY, but horseracing needs something extra right now, and that is Zenyatta.
I spoke to my friend, Hall of Fame Jockey, Chris McCarron this morning and he thinks that even though Zenyatta got beat in the Classic she still deserves to be horse of the year.
I live but a few miles from the great Claiborne farm and know they would love to have Blame win, but this is one time we have to vote with our heart and not our heads
Mikey Cameron
The award is for Horse of the Year, not a life time achievment award. That said, I don't think I have seen the excitement I saw for the great filly, Zenyatta. Blame is a great champion and would be a deserving HOY, but horseracing needs something extra right now, and that is Zenyatta.
I spoke to my friend, Hall of Fame Jockey, Chris McCarron this morning and he thinks that even though Zenyatta got beat in the Classic she still deserves to be horse of the year.
I live but a few miles from the great Claiborne farm and know they would love to have Blame win, but this is one time we have to vote with our heart and not our heads
Mikey Cameron
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