Tag Archives: Old Friends

Talking Derby (hats) and Old Friends with Sally Faith Steinmann

December is, some would say, much too early to start thinking about the Kentucky Derby. Not Sally Faith Steinmann. Her Kentucky Derby musings begin long before the final 2-year-old stakes races of the year, long before the Breeders’ Cup. In … Continue reading

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A win for racing charities

Over the last week, I’ve had multiple opportunities to feel grateful. In addition to the everyday reasons to be appreciative, for family and friends and health, for a home and a job, I am grateful for having the chance to … Continue reading

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The Saratoga Social Calendar

A week from tomorrow, historic Saratoga Race Course will kick off its 143rd meet. Horses, trainers, jockeys, owners, and fans will descend on the resort town to which summer visitors have flocked since the 19th century. Six racing days a … Continue reading

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Catching up

Who ever thought it would be a good idea to have the end of the school year nearly exactly coincide with the Triple Crown season? Not this teacher/writer, that’s for sure! It’s an exciting month: we’ve got a compelling, interesting … Continue reading

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Racing charity check-ins

Last Monday, Hall of Fame trainer John Nerud presented a check for $50,000 to the Belmont Child Care Association. A longtime and loyal donor to Anna House, Nerud visits frequently, sharing the stories of his years on the racetrack with the children. Now … Continue reading

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Christmas Eve quick picks

It’s 7:30 am, and I’m already behind. Not a single present is wrapped, and in fact, there are a couple still to be purchased…and located, so efficiently did I store the few that I’d purchased early. Christmas cards? Ha!  Holiday … Continue reading

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Charity check-in: horses, kids, cats

Charities of various flavors take advantage of the throngs that descend on Saratoga during racing season: every week, even every night, events both modest and elaborate take place across the Spa City. The terrific spirits shop Crush and Cask supported … Continue reading

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This week in Saratoga

Another week at Saratoga is in the books, and some among us are already looking mournfully towards the end of the meet. We’re past the halfway point, and it feels like Labor Day is going to come much too soon. … Continue reading

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The Grand Opening of Old Friends at Cabin Creek: The Bobby Frankel Division

When I visited Old Friends at Cabin Creek last November, only one horse—a weanling—was on the grounds, living in the only paddock.  Mark Pepper, who manages the farm with his wife JoAnn, was on his tractor, clearing land.  It was … Continue reading

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And We’re Off!

Well, sort of,  in a limited sort of pre-meet way.  On Sunday, Saratoga Race Course opened to the public for its annual open house; geared towards families, the day featured face painting, pony rides, and inflatables for the kids, while … Continue reading

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