National Media Teleconference (Cox, O’Neill, Sadler, Pletcher)

Full Transcript (note: transcript has not been edited)

Operator: Good afternoon, ladies and gentlemen. Welcome to the NTRA Conference Call.

At this time, all participants are in a listen-only mode. Following the presentation, we will conduct a question-and-answer session. At which time, instructions will be provided.

For operator assistance during the call, please press star-zero.

Full Transcript (note: transcript has not been edited)

Operator: Good afternoon, ladies and gentlemen. Welcome to the NTRA Conference Call.

At this time, all participants are in a listen-only mode. Following the presentation, we will conduct a question-and-answer session. At which time, instructions will be provided.

For operator assistance during the call, please press star-zero.

I would now like to turn the meeting over to Mr. Gluckson. Please go ahead Mr. Gluckson.
Jim Gluckson: Thank you very much, (Renz).

And good day, everyone. And welcome to the 2021 National Thoroughbred Racing Association: National Media Teleconference Road to the Triple Crown featuring the 147th running of the Kentucky Derby, presented by Woodfood Reserve which will be held, of course, on Saturday, November 1, in Churchill Downs, in Louisville, Kentucky.

We have an excellent lineup with us today – trainers Todd Pletcher, Brad Cox, John Sadler, and Doug O’Neill.

I’ll just flag a few reminders here that this teleconference is being recorded and will be – the audio portion of this will be posted later on the NTRA website. And then tomorrow, within 24 hours, the conclusion of the call, obviously, the transcript of this press conference will be available to everyone.

This 147th Kentucky Derby will televise live on NBC Sports. And will also be on HRRN Radio.

I think it’s important to point out, before we begin, that this Triple Crown is one of the most coveted prizes in all of sports. The following year of an altered schedule of the Triple Crown in 2020 due to COVID-19 restrictions, the Kentucky Derby on May 1, the Preakness on May 15, and the Belmont Stakes on June 5, have been returned to the traditional positions of two weeks between the Derby and Preakness and three weeks for the Belmont.

This Triple Crown spacing had been in place from 1969 through 2019. And of course, there are five Triple Crown winners during that time period – Secretariat, Seattle Slew, Affirmed, American Pharaoh, and Justify.

Now the eight previous Triple Crown winners, those that swept those three jewels, they did it so in a variety of spacing between the races. And on five of those cases, there were just one week between the Derby and the Preakness. And in 1930, with Gallant Fox, he won the Preakness first, and then the Derby a week later.

And going back 102 years ago, to 1919, before the phrase Triple Crown was even coined, Sir Barton won the Kentucky Derby. And then four days later, won the Preakness. And then a month later, captured the Belmont Stakes.

So a little bit of history there. So let’s move on from the past now and we go to the present and bring in our two-time Kentucky Derby winning trainer, Todd Pletcher. Todd, welcome.
Todd Pletcher: Thank you, Jim.

Jim Gluckson: Todd has four starters in this year’s lineup – lineup for this year’s Kentucky Derby with Florida Derby winner, Known Agenda; with Memorial winner, Bourbonic; and the Wood runner-up in Dynamic One; and the runner-up in the Jeff Ruby Steaks, Sainthood.

Todd has had a record tying five starters in the 2007 and 2013 derbies. And on four other occasions, he’s had four starters.

Todd, a great year for you so far. And in the interest of time, and getting to the questions I get, just a quick comment on each of your runners here.

First with Known Agenda, quick progress this year coming off a fifth place finish in the Sam Davis. And then an 11-length win with optional claimer at Gulfstream. And then this very powerful Florida Derby victory. Can you comment on his maturity and why he is a great fit for this derby?
Todd Pletcher: Well, I think a lot of his maturity has come with the addition of blinkers. But I think, in addition to that, a lot of it has to do with just natural progression and maturity, both mentally and physically on this part.

And he’s a son of Curlin, who’s designed to do better with age, and also with increased distance. And so one of the things I’m really excited about for him is, I think, the mile-and-a-quarter suits him very well.
Jim Gluckson: What is your final work schedule for him?

Todd Pletcher: Right now, he’s scheduled to breeze tomorrow at Churchill. And we’re kind of playing with the idea of going on Friday or Saturday (for test). He’s kind of been back and forth between some rain on Saturday. Now it looks like it might start a little later. But right now, we’re planning to go ahead tomorrow. When we feel confident, then we’re going to get him on a fast track.

Jim Gluckson: All right. Now commenting on your horses out of the Wood who make great strides. First, Calumet Farm’s Bourbonic.

Todd Pletcher: Yes. I mean, he was obviously a pleasant surprise to us. He’s a horse that we’ve always thought likely to improve with some added distance. He’s a well-bred colt. And really, the Wood Memorial was his first opportunity to get to run a mile-and-an-eighth, which he simply relished. But we are taking a shot trying to qualify for the derby. And we’re fortunate that he stepped up and ran a big race.

Jim Gluckson: And how about Dynamic One since the Wood?

Todd Pletcher: Dynamic One has always trained extremely well. We’re a little bit frustrated with his early races. He’s a horse that (tattered) himself to us in the mornings, and wasn’t quite polishing it off in the afternoons. But we thought like when he broke his maiden at quarter-mile-and-an-eighth, those stuff in the right direction.

And again, move forward again in the Wood Memorial. So I think he’s a colt that not only improved but has always shown a lot of ability. And again, I think with a win and close runner-up with a mile-and-a-eighth distance should be to his advantage.
Jim Gluckson: All right.

And then finally with Sainthood, who look like have a very troubled trip in the Jeff Ruby. But once he gotten so straightened out and found firmer footing in the deep stretch, he closed very strongly to get second place.
Todd Pletcher: He did. He was a little unlucky. He got his momentum stopped at the top of the stretch. But then (inaudible) he was finishing fast, as he always kind of ran out of ground. So he’s a colt with a lot of talent. My biggest concern, is that, he’s had a little bit lack of experience having only had three starts.

Jim Gluckson: OK. All right. Well, thank you for this, Todd.

Now, at this time, let’s see if we have some questions on the line from the media. And because of so many people are on the call today, and the number of guests, we’re going to have starting out with one question and just one follow-up please.

So (Renz), let’s see if we can get to our questions now.
Operator: Thank you, sir.

At this time, we would like to take any questions you might have for us today. To ask a question, you will need to press star-one on your telephone.

You have your first question from the line of Art Wilson. Please go ahead.
Art Wilson: Yes. Todd, I was just curious. Since you won your first derby back in 2010, have you – when we go back now, are you more relaxed to having already won two of them now as opposed to looking for your first? Did you ever feel any anxiety or pressure until you won your first one back in 2010?

Todd Pletcher: Oh, I mean, I think, anytime you come into the derby, whether you had a win or not, you come in with some anxiety and excitement, and look forward to the preparation. And everything kind of becomes a little more important in this big situation. So I don’t feel any more or less pressure than I did prior to winning the first time.

Art Wilson: And like this year, when you are preparing a group as opposed to maybe just one or two, is it harder this year? Or it easier when you only have one or two? Or is there no difference for you?

Todd Pletcher: I wouldn’t say there’s a big difference. We would still be preparing these horses for other races even if it weren’t the Derby. But like I said, anytime there’s a race, just like the magnitude, you’re a little more anxious about it. But it’s a good kind of anxious and excitement.

Art Wilson: OK. Well, good luck in nine days.

Todd Pletcher: Thanks very much.

Operator: Thank you.

Our next question is from the line of Beth Harris. Your line is now open.
Beth Harris: Hi, Todd. This is going to be the first Lasix-free derby. And I’m wondering, we have a relatively small sample size of running today’s races without Lasix. What affects are you seeing from the race they ban?

Todd Pletcher: Well, in the three-year-old cases, a lot of these – a lot of horses have never run on Lasix because they won’t allow Lasix since two-year-olds. Some of them – most of them did run on Lasix in some that are growing older. Perhaps none of the preparations were allowed to have any Lasix. Some of them run (inaudible).

I think with this particular crop, for my cohort, it’s not been an issue. I can’t speak for everyone else. But I think some of the bigger concerns are around older horses that maybe have been running on Lasix for three, four, five years and then have to come off with it. But bleeding can be an issue for horses, with or without Lasix. And the work that the group we have, it’s not a problem for.
Beth Harris: In what ways have the new rules change the way you train?

Todd Pletcher: To be honest, they have not.

Beth Harris: OK. Thank you.

Operator: Thank you.

Our next question is from the line of (David Renning). Please go ahead.
(David Renning): Hi, Todd.

In addition to having a lot of horses in the race, between the Oaks and the Derby, I’ve count seven stallions that you trained. I was wondering, how much pride do you take into seeing something like that? And the fact that so many of your horses have gone to become productive and successful stallion?
Todd Pletcher: Yes. I mean, it’s something that we’re very proud of, that a lot of the horses that we train have gone on to be successful stallions, and even mares, and (inaudible). We train (inaudible) as well.

But I think it’s a real credit to our program that the horses that we train can go on and have successful breeding careers. And especially some of the stallions like more than ready have had not only terrific careers but extended careers as well.
(David Renning): And a question about Malathaat. You didn’t run her until April. I know you’re planning on the Gulfstream Oaks in late March. But were you always planning on just one race? Or did you get late in her preparation earlier in the year?

Todd Pletcher: Yes. We had a minor setback at the later first start. We are considering running her in (inaudible) as a prep for the – either the Gulfstream Oaks or the Ashland. We had a little bit of a setback. And so then we’re planning on the Gulfstream Oaks. (Inaudible), we postponed running until the Ashland out of his respect to him.

So I feel good about where she is. I feel great about the fact that she was able to win the Ashland (after lay off) and did a great one win. And so far, the indications are the four weeks in between is going to be enough time. So we’re hoping that it works out. But yes, originally, we’re planning on two preps.
(David Renning): I could think of one more. Just do you have a rider for Sainthood?

Todd Pletcher: Do not.

(David Renning): Thank you.

Operator: Thank you.

The next is from (Charles Walker). Your line is open.
(Charles Walker): Yes. Hey, Todd.

You were once in a position, I think, that Brad Cox is in now, where you kind of made the jump from a very successful trainer to a trainer who was getting a lot of attention for maybe more casual fans. I wouldn’t ask you to speak for him obviously, but what was that experience like for you?
Todd Pletcher: Well, you know, I think, you get – when you get to that level, like you said, more people recognize you, and the expectations increase. And so that’s ultimately the position that you’re hoping to get to as a trainer. And Brad has done a terrific job of building a really, really strong stable. And he’s doing all the right things with it.

(Charles Walker): And then also, how do you – how do you (inaudible)? Do you see it as fairly wide open or…?

Todd Pletcher: I think it’s wide open. I think Essential Quality is a deserving favorite with an unbeaten record. But I think that it’s an open race. And just being here at Churchill for the last couple of weeks, it looks like a group of horses are training extremely well.

(Charles Walker): OK. Thanks.

Operator: Thank you.

Again, if you would like to ask a question, you will need to press star-one on your telephone.

And as a reminder, please limit your question to one and one follow-up.

Your next question is from the line of (Stephen Lionel). Please go ahead.
(Stephen Lionel): I think on Bourbonic here, and obviously a great ride in Wood Memorial. Just curious your thoughts on Kendrick in his first mile in the derby.

Todd Pletcher: Kendrick has been riding really, really well. I mean, I think he’s a very accomplished rider. But over the past seven or eight months, he’s taking his game to a new level. And by having a successful run like he did at Aqueduct in the Fall Meet, it increased his opportunities and given him a chance to ride better and better horses. And he’s delivered in most cases.

(Stephen Lionel): Thank you.

Operator: Thank you.

The next question is from Michael Specter. Your line is now open.
Michael Specter: Hi, Mr. Pletcher. Thank you for taking the time to join us today.

All four of your horses seem to want to come from off-the-pace. Do you the think the pace in this year’s derby will be as fast enough? And where would you want to see them sit early in the race?
Todd Pletcher: Well, I’m hoping for a fast pace. Because like you said, most of the four horses will be off the pace a little bit.

I think, probably, Sainthood and Dynamic One would be a little bit closer to the pace. Then Known Agenda I would see being kind of in the backend of the second tier. And then actually, Bourbonic, we’re going to try to apply the same tactics we did in the Wood, which is sit back and make one-way run.
Michael Specter: Thank you so much, Todd. And good luck at the Derby and the Oaks on this.

Todd Pletcher: Thank you.

Operator: Thank you.

The next one is from Lynne Snierson. Please go ahead.
Lynne Snierson: Hey, Todd.

It’s a bit off-topic, but obviously a big undercard over the weekend. And I’m just wondering if you’re thinking about anything for the Longines Distaff Turf Mile or the Churchill Downs at this stage?
Todd Pletcher: Up this stage, no.

Lynne Snierson: Thank you.

Operator: Thank you. There are no further questions at this time, sir. Please continue.

Jim Gluckson: All right. Todd, I just have – the one follow-up that I do want to ask you is, you’ve been doing this for a long time. But I do want to know your feelings about what it was like after you had won your first Kentucky Derby?

Todd Pletcher: It was many, many emotions. One was relief for finally winning it. Two was pure excitement and joy. And the thing that I really enjoyed most about it was having my mom and dad there to see it.

Jim Gluckson: Excellent. Well, it was terrific for them. And to win twice is even better.

We thank you very much for joining us on the call today. And good luck to you next week.
Todd Pletcher: Thanks very much.

Jim Gluckson: OK. Thanks. Todd Fletcher, everyone.

We’re going – either we’ve tried to reach out now for Brad Cox as our next guest. But we’re trying to put him into the queue in just a second. So just stand by for one second please.
Brad Cox: Hello?

Jim Gluckson: Hi. Is this Brad?

Brad Cox: Hi. Hello? Hello? Hello?

Jim Gluckson: Who is joining the line? Is this Brad?

Brad Cox: Yes. This is Brad.

Jim Gluckson: Hi: Jim Gluckson here. How are you?

Brad Cox: Hi. Good, Jim. Good, Jim.

Jim Gluckson: Good. Thank you for joining us.

We’re going to – we just wanted to say, great year for you so far. Brad Cox here is a reigning Eclipse Award winning trainer, Louisville native, and what likely a derby favorite this year. And of course, in addition to Essential Quality, he has Smarty Jones winner and a runner-up in the Arkansas Derby, Caddo River; and of course, the Risen Star Stakes winner in Mandaloun.

I wanted to begin the discussion with you about Essential Quality and how things are going to well, as expected, this year? And just talk about, if you could, his running style in this derby? And why he’s such a – his chances are so good based on pedigree and his ability to get a mile-and-a-quarter?
Brad Cox: Thanks for having me on, Jim.

First off, yes. I mean, everything went really well to Essential Quality, really since we picked the horse up last spring – late spring-early summer. He marched right through his (inaudible) campaign, accomplished enough to become (champion to hero).

And then the plan all along was once he won the Breeders’ Cup was to have two races prior to the Kentucky Derby. Those two races were the Southwest and Blue Grass. We just thought those made the most sense as far as get him to – or giving him the best shot to get to the – for Saturday in May in peak condition.

And all of that went extremely well or to plan to this point. And very happy with how everything has played out.

As far as – Jim, what was the second part of the question? I’m sorry.
Jim Gluckson: Just the fact that, as far as his pedigree and what not of sitting in a mile-and-a-quarter.

Brad Cox: Yes. Yes. I mean, and as far as he’s an adaptable horse. He’s able to – he broke his maiden going three-quarters. And he’s followed it up with some three victories in a mile-and-a-sixteenth, and past a mile-and-an-eight test last time.

I think he should be able to handle the mile-and-a-quarter. He showed us pretty much from the start that distance should not be an issue at any point. Moving forward, we’ve always thought he could be a mile-and-a-quarter, or even mile-and-a-half horse.

So it just gives you a lot of confidence training him. And we’re looking forward to this challenge in the Kentucky Derby.
Jim Gluckson: Very good. And what about his final major work before the derby? What day (inaudible)?

Brad Cox: Right now, it’s Saturday morning. Earlier this week, it looks like we were going to have some wet weather Saturday morning. Right? And we are going to kind of monitor the weather Saturday morning. If we feel like we need to push it off until Sunday morning, we’re OK with that. We do feel like we would have a fast track on Sunday morning.

But the weather right now looks like it could happen Saturday at 5:15, is what we have penciled in for. But we’re just going to watch the weather. And we’re not – nothing is etched in stone at all with that right now.
Jim Gluckson: All right. So just comment, if you would, just on Caddo River, his big improvement from the Rebel to the Arkansas Derby. Can you – after such a major effort in Smarty Jones, what did you do in between those two races to get him a little sharper of that Arkansas Derby?

Brad Cox: Well, it’s a great workhorse. He’s not really – we didn’t really do anything. We just kind of changed tactics from the Rebel to the Arkansas Derby.

You know, he’s a young horse. He’s still learning. We’re still learning what he wants to do. I think we found out in the Rebel, the way he pulled up the back side that we kind of took the run out of him. I wouldn’t second guess anything. The jock, he did –I thought he did a fantastic job of trying to get the horse to rate. He was not able to do it successfully.

Then we turned our attention towards the Arkansas Derby. He had two good works between the Rebel and the Arkansas Derby. And I just thought we would send him out of there and be a little more aggressive and put him on the lead.

It obviously worked in his favor. I felt like we won the battle but we didn’t win the war. We beat the horse that we were trying to beat in Concert Tour but obviously come up a little short with Super Stock picking us both off.

But I think we learned that he’s a free-running horse. And not necessarily think he has to be right on the lead but needs to be fairly close and kind of free-running horse that likes to just kind of (bound along). And that’s what we’ll attempt to do in the Kentucky Derby.
Jim Gluckson: All right. And finally, just to comment on Mandaloun’s progress since arriving at Churchill Downs earlier this month.

Brad Cox: Well, he catches the (odd). There’s no doubt about that. I know he would.

I’ve been around the backside of Churchill long enough to know that there’s always a horse that people are going to fall in love with the way they move, the way they gallop, and how elegant they are. And he’s going to check all the boxes from a visual standpoint.

His work last weekend was visually impressive. Kind of more the same we saw – that’s kind of what we saw leading up – or we’ve seen at all winner. And the obviously, we were hoping for better things in Louisiana Derby. He didn’t perform.

As well as we hope – obviously, he did come out in good order. And he’s continued to impress people training and ourselves. So we just thought we would just march forward to the Kentucky Derby to earn enough points through the Lecomte and the Risen Star.

And now we’re hopeful that he’ll turn it around. And I think if he shows up and runs the way he’s capable of, it will be a factor.
Jim Gluckson: All right. Very good. Very good.

Well, Brad, thank you.

Let’s just see if we have some questions on the line from the media, and checking.
Operator: Again, as a reminder, if you would like to ask a question, you will need to press star-one on your telephone.

And as a reminder, please limit to one question and one follow-up.

We have our first question from Michael Specter. Your line is now open.
Michael Specter: Hi, Brad. Thanks for taking the time to join us today.

Caddo River has ran its best on the early lead. Do you think Caddo on the lead early will provide his best chance to win?
Brad Cox: Yes. I do think it gives him his best chance to win. I mean, obviously, it can’t be a suicidal pace. But if he could get – be on the lead with some comfortable fractions, I think it definitely gives him his best opportunity to win.

Michael Specter: And where do you want Essential Quality and Mandaloun to sit early in the race?

Brad Cox: You know, somewhat forward. I mean, not obviously on the lead. But somewhat forwardly placed, I think, would be ideal for both horses.

Mandaloun has been able to win sitting off. And obviously, he broke his maiden in sprinting. I know that was sprinting. But he was able to take the bounce around through horses and (inaudible), and was able to break his maiden in that way.

So probably something like that. As far as he goes, he’s going to be able to have – he’s going to have to take dirt, I think.

And Essential Quality, the same time, he took dirt in Breeders’ Cup, circled horses. Similar trip for both, I think, I kind of envisioned that as far as their derby trips.
Michael Specter: Thank you, Brad. And good luck with your derby and ultra runners.

Brad Cox: Thank you very much.

Operator: Thank you.

Our next question is from the line of Tim Sullivan. Your line is now open.
Tim Sullivan: Yes, Brad. I spoke to Jimmy Bell yesterday. And he was talking about how impressed he was with the different ways that Luis had won on Essential Quality, and his versatility. I wondered if you could speak to that and what you’ve seen in the different kinds of races he’s had around.

Brad Cox: Yes. I mean, every race has been different, to be honest. Obviously, his first race was sprinting. He was taking dirt, tracking horses, went to a tight spot, (up and down to win), going three-quarters, going away with the big gallop out. (Inaudible) up close, set off with just one horse. He cleared down the lane, huge gallop out.

(Breeders’) – I’m sorry, Breeders’ Cup, they obviously got away from him. He was a fast-pace upfront. He just couldn’t keep up early, was wide around both turns, circled the field, got up going short stretch at Keeneland, the mile-and-sixteenth, a short stretch. Once again, impressed with gallop out.

And then just basically the Southwest, he was able to sit close to, I call it, a moderate pace. And just kind of sitting in a great spot in the mud and kicked on down the lane.

And then very similar trip in the Blue Grass with a fast track.

So he’s able to obviously adapt to the pace. Whether it’s hot, he can send off of it and come running. Or if it’s moderate, he can be closer up on it and still finish.

He’s, once again, very adaptable. And it’s exactly what you want to see with a horse in a Kentucky Derby, as far as I’m concerned.
Tim Sullivan: Thanks, Brad.

Brad Cox: Thank you.

Operator: Thank you.

Our next question is from the line of line of John McClane. Your line is now open.
John McClane: I think it’s been a goal of theirs to win the Kentucky Derby. What do you think it would mean to them to finally accomplish that goal? And can you talk a little bit about your relationship with Godolphin and with Mr. Bell?

Brad Cox: I mean, as far American racing, this is – in my eyes, it’s the biggest race there is. I think most people in the business, they would agree with that. And I know Sheikh Mohammed wanted to win the race for several years. He’s had different tactics as far as racing in (new ban), bringing a horse over.

And I don’t think there’s one set way of winning this thing. It’s a very tough race to win. And I think it means a lot that this is a (home) for him. And trying for – I’m sorry, moving forward, trying for Godolphin for a couple of years, Essential Quality was part of the second crop of (heralds) we had received from them.

We had (walked) with him. I really enjoyed working with the whole team, Jimmy Bell, Dan Pride. They had a classy organization that’s obviously dealing with some high-end bloodstock, some of the best bloodlines in the world. And it’s been just a real honor to train for such a global empire and to have a horse like this.

It just means a lot to us and to them. And hopefully we could get them their first Kentucky Derby and mine as well.
John McClane: Thanks, Brad. Good luck to you.

Brad Cox: Thank you very much.

Operator: Thank you.

Our next question is from (Frank Yan). Please go ahead.
(Frank Yan): Hi, Brad. Thanks for joining us today.

Brad Cox: Hey, (Frank). Thank you.

(Frank Yan): OK. Hey, in terms of Essential Quality’s development, how big has it been for him to do so much of his racing in Kentucky where he’s done most of his training?

Brad Cox: You know, he’s – I think it’s a good thing. It can only be a good thing when you have experience here at Churchill. He actually won last (inaudible) Kentucky Derby Day. (Inaudible), it was odd year, in September. I think that would be, maybe there will be a question as things play out, right, down the road.

(Frank Yan): Yes.

Brad Cox: But, yes. You know, I can’t be nothing but advantage him being here at Churchill. You know, did a lot of his prep – all of this work leading up to the Breeders’ (inaudible) and Breeders’ Cup, and his works were at Churchill.

So this is really home-base. He’s obviously won three races of Keeneland. And it’s kind of his home away from home. But I do think of Churchill as being his home-base, with having breezed there so many times. And it’s nothing but a good thing as far as I’m concerned with him having so much – so many spins around the Churchill oval.
(Frank Yan): Churchill has really put in a nice meat there in September. Did you give any thought of taking this horse to Saratoga or something like that? Or were you just really taking advantage of getting that first start at Churchill?

Brad Cox: I’m more of taking advantage of having him there at Churchill. I mean, I thought he was a really, really good horse.

I think – I can’t remember if there was, the exact date. But I think we debut Caddo River that week as well at Saratoga going seven-eighths.

So we obviously thought Caddo River was a good horse when he’s getting started. And as far as back to Essential Quality, he was a colt that I thought – we’ve started him at Keeneland. He did a good bit of his work there. And thought, look, we’re going to bring him to other side of the state, the Churchill, and it’s worked out really well. We did most of his gait works there at Churchill and showed us enough – he showed us enough to make us think he was a good horse.
(Frank Yan): Thanks so much, Brad. I appreciate it.

Brad Cox: Thanks, (Frank).

Operator: Thank you.

Your next question is from the line of Gary Graves. Please go ahead.
Gary Graves: Very good. Good afternoon, Brad.

Brad Cox: Yes.

Gary Graves: I guess we’re all to talk about your Derby horses. Your Oaks horses are overlooked and you got another favorite with Travel Column in coaching the field. What about Travel Column gives you a good feeling about winning another Oaks?

Brad Cox: Well, she’s done nothing wrong, really. I mean, she’s very, very good filly. She was very similar form early on as Essential Quality. We kind of thought she was our top two-year-old filly, as well as Essential Quality our top two-year-old colt at the time.

I would say, on September of last year, she was similar thing. Was ran, I believe, on Oaks, the day broke her maiden, went straight (inaudible). Didn’t quite break as well as we thought and then followed that up.

We talk about going to the Breeders’ Cup. We would have been able to get in. That’s our best thought. Let’s just give her the time. Let’s her spring her along.

He talked about (inaudible) and the Golden Rod. I said, “Look, let’s just go to Golden Rod. This is a good filly.” And it worked out well. And then she followed that up with a good effort in the Rachel, at the Fair Grounds, and then the Fair Grounds Oaks.

So she’s accomplished filly. She’s won two graded stakes. She’s had a nice battle with Clairiere in the last three races. And I think those two fillies are two of the top fillies in the field. And it will be a good match-up.

And it’s a good deep group of three-year-old fillies from top to bottom. But I’m looking forward to another Kentucky Oaks next Friday.

As far as Coach, another one that’s had some success at Churchill, she won (inaudible), which a two-year-old and was good third behind Travel Column and Clairiere in the Golden Rod.

And she moved forward on our last race. She won (at Oaklawn). She moved forward on our last race (inaudible). And we’re going to need a similar move forward once again back in four weeks in the Kentucky Oaks.

She’s a good filly, which is another filly that done a lot of retraining at Churchill. And hopeful that she can take that next step.
Gary Graves: Great.

Brad Cox: Thank you.

Operator: Thank you.

We have our last question from the line of Jessie Oswald. Please go ahead.
Jessie Oswald: Hi, Brad.

You won your First Grade 1 Stakes only three years ago with Monomoy Girl. And in that, the course over the last three years, you’ve been, I think it’s seven Breeders’ Cup wins. You’re an Eclipse Wining Trainer now. You got Multiple Graded Stakes. You’ve got five going to the Oakland Derby this weekend. And three in the derby, with one of them being the favorite.

Can you reflect on your success in the last three years? And is there one thing that you would credit with that success?
Brad Cox: Yes. The one thing is good horses, for sure. But there are several things that put us in this position.

I mean, clientele. We have great clientele. Great help. Great assistant trainers. So I mean, I have a lot of help. And we got the right people in the right place. Very blessed to have great clienteles supporting us with great bloodstock.

When you have a client like Larry Best sending you fillies like Travel Column, I mean, I’m not going to say it’s easy but it helps you. And then obviously, we have the likes of (inaudible).

In the (makeshifts), it definitely gives you an opportunity to play at the high end. And then obviously our help – we – like I said, our clienteles give us the opportunity. And our help put us in place. They’ve executed and performed of the mornings with training and schooling and preparing these horses. And it pays off in the afternoon.

And so just, I’m very fortunate to be in that position. And we’ve come a long way over the last three years. And continue – hopefully, we continue to move forward.
Jessie Oswald: And you talked earlier about what it would mean to the Godolphin to win the Derby. But what would it mean to you as a Louisvillian growing up just around the block from the track?

Brad Cox: Probably the biggest accomplishment – and I can’t say that they’re being won any bigger as far as the thoroughbred industry goes in my eyes. We’ve been very fortunate to win two Kentucky Oaks, seven Breeders’ Cup races, and Eclipse Award. And those are things that I’ll never forget and very proud of those.

But Kentucky Derby is number one. I’m not bashful about saying it. It’s – we have a lot of goals. It’s not just the Kentucky Derby but that is number one and it would mean a lot. So it would be a great accomplishment, to say the least.
Jessie Oswald: Thank you. Best of luck to you.

Brad Cox: Thank you very much.

Jim Gluckson: All right. Brad, thank you very much for joining us and talking the call today. Good luck to you in the Kentucky Derby and all the racing for next week. Thanks very much for having – for coming on today.

Brad Cox: Thanks, Jim. I appreciate it. Talk to you soon.

Jim Gluckson: Great. Thank you. Brad Cox, everyone.

Now let’s right away bring in our next guest that’s been patiently waiting, is John Sadler. John Sadler has, of course, Rock Your World, the winner of the Run Happy Santa Anita Derby, who is with us today. John, welcome.
John Sadler: Good morning.

Jim Gluckson: How are you?

John Sadler: Good.

Jim Gluckson: Good. John, there’s a very interesting development with your horse. I think it’s been discussed previously.

But your interesting work pattern here, three races undefeated. Two coming off the Turf, and one in January, in New Year’s Day, and one in February in the Pasadena. And then an explosive win in the Santa Anita Derby by four-and-a-half – four-and-a-quarter length.

Just discuss with you that progression coming from the Pasadena and the Santa Anita Derby. And what your expectations were? And were you surprised by how well that he got it accomplished?
John Sadler: Well, a couple of things. We always kind of believe through (inaudible) this horse can run on either surface. I’ve watched (the sister) run over here in California grass. So early on, we decided if we’re going to run at the grass, get a couple of races into him, and then try among (inaudible) the big day.

As you know, if you’re going to Kentucky, if you run on (the last grass), you get 100 points or 50. So you’re unlucky and you’re second, you’re in. I mean, if you’re not (one, two) in the one of the last preps, you may not want to go anyway.
Jim Gluckson: Right.

John Sadler: So we saw a good round on either surface. And we’re not (suck) the way he ran the other day, but we’re very pleased.

Jim Gluckson: All right. Just as a point-of-view, a point that other people have asked me about this. How do the name of the horse comes out?

John Sadler: When we bought him (inaudible), two owners, Kosta Hironis and Michael Talla bought him together and Kosta said that Mr. Talla could name him. So he named him Rock Your World. And I don’t know how he got there. But Mr. Talla was the horse-namer.

Jim Gluckson: All right. And also just about the horses’ final major work, do you have that planned out yet?

John Sadler: Yes. He’s going to work Saturday.

Jim Gluckson: OK. He’s going to work – all right. He’s going to work Saturday.

All right. Let’s, at this point now, open it up for some questions from the media on the line, John. Thank you.
John Sadler: Sure.

Operator: Thank you.

Again, as a reminder, if you would like to ask a question, you will need to press star-one on your telephone.

Please limit your question to one and one follow-up.

We have our first question from the line of Art Wilson. Please go ahead.
Art Wilson: Does it seem possible to you that it’s been 28 years since you settled your first (WRs)?

John Sadler: No. When you’re training these horses every day, the years kind of roll on by. So I’m glad you told me that. I didn’t realize it’s been that long. But we’re looking forward to it. And it feels good to go back after a few years.

Art Wilson: Now, from the time that you sent (Cody) back there until now, all the experience you’ve gained since then, anything you think you’ve learned that you do differently now preparing the horse for the derby as opposed to maybe back when you were training (Cody), number of preps, anyway that you would prepare?

John Sadler: Well, you always evolve as a trainer. My life – the best trainers that were ahead of me, they were always learning something new and new things. So I hope I am included in that. I try not to be locked down on just one thing I do. I try to have an open mind.

And I think you see that in the preparation. We took a very young, non-conventional route. And it appears to be working for us. So we hope that that one goes as well.
Art Wilson: And just real quick, (inaudible). Any doubt from your mind, whether in your fore mind or back mind about the way you will ship him?

John Sadler: About the what?

Art Wilson: The way you’ll fly – flying out of California for the first time?

John Sadler: Yes. I mean, shipping is always a concern. But we think he’ll do fine. And when I look at the weather at Churchill the last couple of days, I’m glad I’m in California.

Art Wilson: OK. Good luck, John.

John Sadler: Thank you.

Operator: Thank you.

Our next question is from the line of (John Swacker). Please go ahead.
Jim Gluckson: I think we should go to the next question, please.

Operator: Our next question is from the line of Lynne Snierson. Your line is open.

Lynne Snierson: Oh thank you. My question was actually for Brad. So I’ll just say, good luck. Good luck, John. Lots of good luck to you.

John Sadler: Thank you very much.

Operator: Thank you.

Our next question is from the line of Beth Harris. Please go ahead.
Beth Harris: Hi, John. This is going to be the first Lasix-free derby. And we have a relatively small samples size of running stakes races without Lasix. What effects are you seeing from race they ban?

John Sadler: Well, when you train to a large stable like mine, you have a little bit of everything. You have some horses that struggle with that. I’ve had some older horses, and I have to say no more stakes for them. They’ve got to run in the easier races. They weren’t capable of running without Lasix.

And then you hope each equally, that if you’re a fairly big barn, that you have some that will rise up because they don’t need Lasix. And hopefully they’ll go up.

So we usually have a balance. Some good, some bad. So that’s what we’re seeing on the ground.
Beth Harris: How do you see the no-Lasix rule affecting public perception of this Board?

John Sadler: I mean, obviously, that’s what the races authorities are hoping. To me, I have never – I have never really felt – I’ve never had a fan come up to me and say, “Geez, Lasix is bad.” People want to go to the races and have fun and watch good horses run. Whether it’s a Kentucky Derby or opening date of Del Mar, or all the big days, are thrilling for the fans.

So that might be a question for somebody else. But for me, I hope everything goes well. We race under all the rules that were given. We have a lot of rules in California, you know. I mean, I think this pendulum is swung a little bit to one side more than the other. But hopefully we’ll get the right win.
Beth Harris: Thank you.

Operator: Thank you.

We have our last question from the line of (Paul Halpern). Please go ahead.
(Paul Halpern): Hi, John. How are you?

John, just briefly, you gave a very thoughtful reasonable explanation after you announced the jockey switch. Can you understand how people would completely understand that explanation but still not necessarily like it, mainly out of some type of empathy for Umberto?
John Sadler: Oh absolutely. That was a really tough decision for me. I lost a lot of sleep on it. But it’s like – what’s the word? Algorithms? Or what’s the word in sports now that they use on the baseball or the basketball when you make these decisions? I can’t think of it now. But…

(Paul Halpern): Analytics.

John Sadler: Analytics. You know, we watched for years out there with (inaudible) every day and they got all the money.

So if you look at Rosario’s history with me, some journalist sent me this, that he’s won more races with me than any trainer in the country, more money with me than any trainer in the country, we’ve won titles before. And so we have a long, rich history. So this is the way we decided to go.

But I empathize completely with Rispoli. He did nothing wrong. He rode the horse very, very well. And it’s a tough one. But I mean, we’ve all, in this game, if I’ve had good horses leave my barn to go somewhere else, nothing is easy. But if you’re a professional, you’re going to roll with the punches, and then things will work out.

So I understand why everybody would think that. And they’re not wrong in thinking that because – you know.

On the other hand, the other thing you got to look at is, when the jockey leaves you, when the horses won, he rides something better, does anybody empathize with the trainer? I don’t know.

But it can go both ways, and certainly not an easy topic. And I don’t think there is a right or a wrong answer. It’s just that I had to do, make the call (inaudible) what I thought is best for us. And that’s what I did.

I’m certainly rooting for Concert Tour and the Arkansas Derby. But it didn’t happen. So we ask that (inaudible) were played and we’re going to play it. And I hope that we get lucky.
(Paul Halpern): Great. Thanks, John.

John Sadler: You got it.

Jim Gluckson: OK. Great.

John, thank you very much for joining us today. Terrific beginning of the season for you and Rock Your World. And good luck to you in the Kentucky Derby. Thanks very much.
John Sadler: Hey, thank you so much. We look forward to being there.

Jim Gluckson: Great. John Sadler, everyone. Thank you.

Now joining us on the line will be another two-time Kentucky Derby winning trainer, Doug O’Neill, the trainer of the twinspires.com Louisiana Derby winner, Hot Rod Charlie. Doug, thanks for joining us today.
Doug O’Neill: Of course. Thanks for having me.

Jim Gluckson: Oh, you’re very welcome.

Doug, we have – we’ve seen great confidence in Hot Rod Charlie boosting from race to race, 95 to 1 in the TVG Breeders’ Cup Juvenile, and he nearly wins it. And then finishes a third by a neck in the hard-knocking Bob Lewis in his debut. And then really took charge and dominated the Louisiana Derby at one-and-three-sixteenth miles. Can you talk about his development and his maturity that will lead up to this Kentucky Derby?
Doug O’Neill: Yes. He’s such a talented colt. He’s a tall, rangy colt. He’s a half-brother to Mitole which would make you think, “Maybe he’s a one-turn dynamite sprinter.” But as we’ve got to know him, and he’s got to know us, he’s told us with blinkers on. He’s a two-term (dirt) horse.

So it took us a little while to get on the same page with him. But he’s just a real sociable colt. He’s just a huge asset to our barn, obviously. And he’s shown his maturity in shipping to places like Kentucky already. At Keeneland, like you talked about the previous cup, and then shipping to Louisiana.

And that’s such a huge strong trait to have for a top race horse to be able to travel and take your ability with you on the road. So we’re really excited about him and optimistic for May 1.
Jim Gluckson: All right. Well, just talk about again about the strategy of running in Louisiana Derby, knowing there will be a longer break between it and the Kentucky Derby and a prep at a mile-and-three-sixteenth.

What went through? What was the process of deciding there, as opposed to staying home running in the Santa Anita Derby?
Doug O’Neill: You know, I think the spacing, we like a little bit better. It gave us a little bit more time between our final prep in Kentucky Derby. We thought – seeing that he run so well in the road and Breeders’ Cup shipping would be a strenght as well.

And then at the time, having Joel stay on him, we thought that was a strenght too. So – and it was million dollar (pros). So a lot of it is just kind of your gut, your feel, and that stuff. And that’s particular time that worked out perfect. And I couldn’t be happier with the extra time in between that final press and the derby.
Jim Gluckson: All right. Well, Doug, let’s see. We have some questions here on the line for you. And let’s go to that section please.

Operator: Again, if you would like to ask a question, you will need to press star-one on your telephone.

We have our first question from the line of (Curtis Callaward). Your line is now open.
(Curtis Callaward): Hi, Doug. Thanks for taking time for us today. I’m excited that I’ll get to talk to too many fellow Michigan natives in this sports. This is a fun time for me.

You preemptively chose the rider for Hot Rod Charlie rather than wait. So what made Flavien Prat the right fit to ride Hot Rod Charlie in the Kentucky Derby?
Doug O’Neill: Oh man. Great. Thanks.

Great talking to you. Midwest is best. Michigan – I’m so proud to be a Michigan and they’re best.

With that, both Joel and Flavien are just world-class riders that you just feel so grateful to have them work alongside your race horse and to be able to compete with them.

So after the Louisiana Derby, Joel’s agent is one of the best in the game. He asked if we could wait until after the Arkansas Derby to decide. And we said, sure. And then in the meantime, Flavien had been working Hot Rod.

So after Concert Tour (Cup B), we figured it was kind of a no brainer that we keep Joel. But his agent needed a few more days and we’re worried about losing Flavien somewhere else.

So we just kind of hold it up, put our heads together, and said, “Listen, we’re not going to – we’re going to be in great shape whether we have Joel or Flavien. We just want to make sure we have one of them.” And Flavien was able to commit, so we jumped on that.
(Curtis Callaward): And then last question, Doug. The timing for the Kentucky Derby for him, you were spacing out the races where you went Robert B. Lewis, and in six weeks, Louisiana Derby. Some people thought that maybe you were running away from life is good when you went to Louisiana Derby. So especially with him out of the picture, where does Hot Rod Charlie sit in the derby picture in your mind?

Doug O’Neill: Well, I’m biased, of course. This picture looks pretty clear and pretty nice to me at this time. But as we all know, in this sport – in any sport, I guess, it’s one day at a time.

But with Hot Rod would likely – is it going to be out of the picture? I think Hot Rod has got a big, big chance. Obviously, Brad Cox’s colt, who’s already beat him, he is an extremely talented colt in Essential Quality. I just heard a little bit of the talk with John Sadler and his colts (inaudible) colt as well.

And Bob still has another one in Medina Spirit. And I’m not naming a bunch of other horses from back east that are super talented.

So – but I think Hot Rod Charlie, we were extremely optimistic. We were – (when we’re to draw), we think we’re bringing a super talented colt to Churchill. And with a little bit of luck, I think we’ll be right there at the wire.
(Curtis Callaward): Awesome. Good luck, Doug. Thanks so much.

Doug O’Neill: You too. Thank you.

Operator: Thank you.

The next one is from Brad James. Please go ahead.
Brad James: Hi, Doug. Thanks for your time today.

Doug O’Neill: Of course.

Brad James: I was wondering if you could sort of describe this large and diverse ownership group you have with this colt. And if I read correctly, this is the first derby for each. Do you find yourself sort of training them on this experience as we get closer?

Doug O’Neill: That’s a great question. You know, it’s a great group of guys.

We got a guy, Greg Helm, who’s very successful businessman, and his group of friends and partners in Roadrunner. And then we got Bill Strauss who was – he started Proflowers. And he’s super successful businessman. And he’s been in the – both Greg and Bill have been in the business for quite a while.

And then we got my nephew Patrick, who’s 28 years old, a graduate of Brown University, and four of his fellow Brown football players put together this (Boat Racing Group). So Patrick, he knows the sport. He’s been with me to a lot of races throughout the years. But a lot of his buddies were turned on to the sport through Patrick.

And I remember one of the funniest stories was just, when they moved into the fraternity, and all these football players, and Patrick’s biggest plea was, “We got to get TVG on this TV in the living room.” So they’re like, “What the heck is TVG?”

So Patrick has really brought a lot of his friends into this sport, which is a beautiful thing. And you know, I often say horses are reflections of the people surrounding them. And we just got a really cool group of people surrounding Hot Rod Charlie. And he’s a cool horse himself. And it’s been a great journey so far. And we’re hoping he can still continue.
Brad James: They obviously will watch a lot of Kentucky Derbies. But what will they not know about it as an owner until they go through this one?

Doug O’Neill: What will they not know as an owner until they go into this one?

You know, this one will be a little bit – yes. You know, it’s just – God, well, you know – I mean, the one think about Kentucky Derby, is that, even people who don’t know about horse racing have heard of Kentucky Derby. So that is – and so now you’re being part of a tradition that is just priceless.

And then the city of Louisville is just, oftentimes, especially the week of the Derby, I think, like everything shuts down. And I thought everyone is talking about it. What do you like? Who do you like?

So I think they’re going to enjoy the heck out of it. And it is all thanks to Hot Rod Charlie taking us all there. And I think they’ve already shown – and the Breeders’ Cup was kind of eye opening event for them. And they danced right with that and enjoyed every minute of it.

So I think the derby, though it’s a little bit higher on the totem pole there of tradition, they’re going to (choke) it all in. And (when there’s a draw), they’re going to have a time of their life.
(Brad Chains): Very good. Thanks for your time today.

Doug O’Neill: Of course. Thank you.

Operator: Thank you.

Our next question is from the line of Gary Graves. Please go ahead.
Gary Graves: Hey, good afternoon.

I guess kind of following up what you were saying about the derby’s effect on the local, do you kind of see that buzz this year coming back just after everything that happened last year with first being delayed until September, and then not having an event, kind of feel that energy coming back now?
Doug O’Neill: I do. And I know they’re only going to have like 40,000 people there, I think. But it’s still – the energy surrounding Churchill Downs is, from my experience, is just awesome. And they got the awesome campus, the University of Louisville, right smack there. So you just got a great mixture of people coming in to watch races, students that live in the area coming around.

Just great energy, great tradition. And I do feel that – like you say, last year was just so unique in so many ways. And it does feel like we’re heading the right way in a lot of different areas.

So I feel the buzz, the positive buzz. And I think it’s going to be, maybe not your traditional (pray) the Churchill Downs here because they’re still going to limit the attendants. But it’s going to be a race of a lifetime for these guys and me and for Hot Rod.
Gary Graves: Yes. As a follow-up, I guess with Brad Cox kind of getting a lot of attention with having his first derby contenders like this. Do you get a chance to maybe talk to some other trainers in that position? And I guess, what is kind of your assessment of Brad, at this point, just with what he’s been able to bring the Churchill Downs with the fillies, as well as with colts?

Doug O’Neill: Yes. Those are types of things – I have reached out to others on my journey as a trainer, picking guys and gals’ brains what they did in certain situations and certain big races. So I’d be honored if Brad ever reach out to me.

But Brad is super successful, great horseman who – the numbers don’t lie. He knows what he’s doing. So I think, it’s really – as he get longer in the tooth in this sport, you’ll realize it’s all about the horse. And you just try to do what’s right by your horse and the results will be what they will.
Operator: Thank you.

We have our next question from the line of Art Wilson. Please go ahead.
Art Wilson: Hey, Doug. You settled your first derby horse in 2007. And in 14 years since, the experiences that you (inaudible), anything you do differently now that you’ve learned, anywhere from shipping plans to number of derby preps? Anything that you’ve learned along the way but maybe you’re doing differently now?

Doug O’Neill: That’s a great question, Art.

I think it’s kind of just an individual thing. I know, as you go back to 2007, I was – probably a nervous wreck and way overthinking everything. And as I have done it a little bit and now here we are in 2021, I do feel a lot more calm about the situation.

And as far as shipping plans, I think a lot of it has to do with where your final prep maybe was. If it was at Keeneland or something, of course, you just stay right there and train up to a bit.

With this particular year, and Hot Rod Charlie being six weeks out of Louisiana, it made all the sense in the world to bring him back to California and pray for a normal beautiful weather where we could train daily and not have to worry about mother nature so much.

But as far as preps go, I think, as I’m doing it a little bit longer, and we’ve seen Baffert do this too, less is more. I think you want to bring a horse to – again, it’s all individual. But I think for the most part, you want to bring a horse whose rail has really fresh legs, and has a good mind, and could (rest) and go a mile-and-a-quarter against 19 other horses. They got to be laid on their feet and their tank is going to be full.
Art Wilson: And my follow-up real quick, I asked John Sadler about this with Rock Your World because his horse here hasn’t shipped yet. How much of a calming influence for you? Is it comfort to know that Hot Rod Charlie is shipped and it doesn’t bother him?

Doug O’Neill: Art, honest to God, that’s a huge asset for us. And that’s – it’s very – it’s one last thing you’re concerned about, because until you do it, you just don’t know. And these barns are their homes. Right? So when you take them from one home, and you move them to another home, some are like no big deal, and some aren’t.

So knowing that Charlie has no problem moving home for competition is a big asset. And I think it brings some more optimism to us as we go into the big dance here.
Art Wilson: Thanks for your time, Doug. And best of luck.

Doug O’Neill: You too, Art. Take care.

Operator: Thank you.

Our last question is from the line of Beth Harris. Please go ahead.
Beth Harris: Hey, Doug. How are you doing?

Doug O’Neill: Good, Beth. How are you?

Beth Harris: Good.

This is going to be first Lasix-free derby. And you know we’ve had the ban, of course, involved in two-year-old races. But certainly, there’s kind of an overall small sample size of running stakes without Lasix. And I’m wondering what effect are you seeing from this race they ban?
Doug O’Neill: Oh, yes. That’s a tough question.

I would say it’s an individual thing. And in an ideal world, if the horse doesn’t have any kind of tendency to have any kind of nosebleed, running without Lasix, they do seem to come out of the races with more energy, and they get back to their normal exercise energy quicker. So they recover quicker, I think, without Lasix.

So it’s something, I think, we all in this sport kind of knew it was coming. Just – if you look around the world, most of the big races around the world are ran Lasix-free.

So as much as I was apprehensive like, I think a lot of horsemen were and are, I think the longer we’ve done it, the more able to – I’ve been able to adjust. And the horses have kept their form without it.
Beth Harris: Do you train differently because of not having it on race day?

Doug O’Neill: You know, we (pool), feed and water. We have a little bit different diet leading up to works and races. Just we’re more thoughtful of not having much in their stomach for exercise, which probably, we should have been thinking of that.

Anyways, but – so just try to have them a little bit more light going into their works and races. It’s definitely been something that we’ve been more conscientious of with no Lasix.
Beth Harris: Thanks a lot.

Doug O’Neill: Of course. Thank you, Beth.

Operator: Thank you.

There are no further questions at this time. Sir, please continue.
Jim Gluckson: Doug, thank you very much. Great call today. I appreciate your time here on the call. And good luck to you on getting Kentucky Derby number three next week with Hot Rod Charlie.

Doug O’Neill: Your lips to God’s ears, Jim.

Thanks so much. Take care.
Jim Gluckson: All right, Doug. Doug O’Neill. Thanks everybody.

Thank you everyone for joining us. There were a lot of people. I’m sorry we could not get to everyone during today in our timeframe. But I appreciate everyone joining.

Again, the conference will be recorded – is recorded. And will be on the NTRA website later today and the transcript tomorrow.

We will be bank with another conference call probably around May 7, Thursday or Friday, after the Kentucky Derby, to preview the Preakness Stakes.

So again, thanks everyone for joining. And have a good day.
Operator: This concludes today’s conference call. Thank you for participating. You may now disconnect. Have a great day.

END

 

I would now like to turn the meeting over to Mr. Gluckson.  Please go ahead Mr. Gluckson.  

Jim Gluckson: Thank you very much, (Renz).

And good day, everyone.  And welcome to the 2021 National Thoroughbred Racing Association: National Media Teleconference Road to the Triple Crown featuring the 147th running of the Kentucky Derby, presented by Woodfood Reserve which will be held, of course, on Saturday, November 1, in Churchill Downs, in Louisville, Kentucky.  

We have an excellent lineup with us today – trainers Todd Pletcher, Brad Cox, John Sadler, and Doug O’Neill.  

I’ll just flag a few reminders here that this teleconference is being recorded and will be – the audio portion of this will be posted later on the NTRA website.  And then tomorrow, within 24 hours, the conclusion of the call, obviously, the transcript of this press conference will be available to everyone.  

This 147th Kentucky Derby will televise live on NBC Sports.  And will also be on HRRN Radio.  

I think it’s important to point out, before we begin, that this Triple Crown is one of the most coveted prizes in all of sports.  The following year of an altered schedule of the Triple Crown in 2020 due to COVID-19 restrictions, the Kentucky Derby on May 1, the Preakness on May 15, and the Belmont Stakes on June 5, have been returned to the traditional positions of two weeks between the Derby and Preakness and three weeks for the Belmont.  

This Triple Crown spacing had been in place from 1969 through 2019.  And of course, there are five Triple Crown winners during that time period – Secretariat, Seattle Slew, Affirmed, American Pharaoh, and Justify.  

Now the eight previous Triple Crown winners, those that swept those three jewels, they did it so in a variety of spacing between the races.  And on five of those cases, there were just one week between the Derby and the Preakness.  And in 1930, with Gallant Fox, he won the Preakness first, and then the Derby a week later.  

And going back 102 years ago, to 1919, before the phrase Triple Crown was even coined, Sir Barton won the Kentucky Derby.  And then four days later, won the Preakness.  And then a month later, captured the Belmont Stakes.  

So a little bit of history there.  So let’s move on from the past now and we go to the present and bring in our two-time Kentucky Derby winning trainer, Todd Pletcher.  Todd, welcome.  

Todd Pletcher: Thank you, Jim.

Jim Gluckson: Todd has four starters in this year’s lineup – lineup for this year’s Kentucky Derby with Florida Derby winner, Known Agenda; with Memorial winner, Bourbonic; and the Wood runner-up in Dynamic One; and the runner-up in the Jeff Ruby Steaks, Sainthood.

Todd has had a record tying five starters in the 2007 and 2013 derbies.  And on four other occasions, he’s had four starters.  

Todd, a great year for you so far.  And in the interest of time, and getting to the questions I get, just a quick comment on each of your runners here.  

First with Known Agenda, quick progress this year coming off a fifth place finish in the Sam Davis. And then an 11-length win with optional claimer at Gulfstream.  And then this very powerful Florida Derby victory.  Can you comment on his maturity and why he is a great fit for this derby?  

Todd Pletcher: Well, I think a lot of his maturity has come with the addition of blinkers. But I think, in addition to that, a lot of it has to do with just natural progression and maturity, both mentally and physically on this part.

And he’s a son of Curlin, who’s designed to do better with age, and also with increased distance.  And so one of the things I’m really excited about for him is, I think, the mile-and-a-quarter suits him very well.  

Jim Gluckson: What is your final work schedule for him?

Todd Pletcher: Right now, he’s scheduled to breeze tomorrow at Churchill. And we’re kind of playing with the idea of going on Friday or Saturday (for test). He’s kind of been back and forth between some rain on Saturday. Now it looks like it might start a little later. But right now, we’re planning to go ahead tomorrow. When we feel confident, then we’re going to get him on a fast track.

Jim Gluckson: All right. Now commenting on your horses out of the Wood who make great strides. First, Calumet Farm’s Bourbonic.

Todd Pletcher: Yes. I mean, he was obviously a pleasant surprise to us. He’s a horse that we’ve always thought likely to improve with some added distance. He’s a well-bred colt. And really, the Wood Memorial was his first opportunity to get to run a mile-and-an-eighth, which he simply relished. But we are taking a shot trying to qualify for the derby. And we’re fortunate that he stepped up and ran a big race.

Jim Gluckson: And how about Dynamic One since the Wood?

Todd Pletcher: Dynamic One has always trained extremely well. We’re a little bit frustrated with his early races. He’s a horse that (tattered) himself to us in the mornings, and wasn’t quite polishing it off in the afternoons. But we thought like when he broke his maiden at quarter-mile-and-an-eighth, those stuff in the right direction.

And again, move forward again in the Wood Memorial.  So I think he’s a colt that not only improved but has always shown a lot of ability.  And again, I think with a win and close runner-up with a mile-and-a-eighth distance should be to his advantage.  

Jim Gluckson: All right.

And then finally with Sainthood, who look like have a very troubled trip in the Jeff Ruby.  But once he gotten so straightened out and found firmer footing in the deep stretch, he closed very strongly to get second place.  

Todd Pletcher: He did. He was a little unlucky. He got his momentum stopped at the top of the stretch. But then (inaudible) he was finishing fast, as he always kind of ran out of ground. So he’s a colt with a lot of talent. My biggest concern, is that, he’s had a little bit lack of experience having only had three starts.

Jim Gluckson: OK. All right. Well, thank you for this, Todd.

Now, at this time, let’s see if we have some questions on the line from the media.  And because of so many people are on the call today, and the number of guests, we’re going to have starting out with one question and just one follow-up please.  

So (Renz), let’s see if we can get to our questions now.  

Operator: Thank you, sir.

At this time, we would like to take any questions you might have for us today.  To ask a question, you will need to press star-one on your telephone.  

You have your first question from the line of Art Wilson.  Please go ahead.  

Art Wilson: Yes. Todd, I was just curious. Since you won your first derby back in 2010, have you – when we go back now, are you more relaxed to having already won two of them now as opposed to looking for your first? Did you ever feel any anxiety or pressure until you won your first one back in 2010?

Todd Pletcher: Oh, I mean, I think, anytime you come into the derby, whether you had a win or not, you come in with some anxiety and excitement, and look forward to the preparation. And everything kind of becomes a little more important in this big situation. So I don’t feel any more or less pressure than I did prior to winning the first time.

Art Wilson: And like this year, when you are preparing a group as opposed to maybe just one or two, is it harder this year? Or it easier when you only have one or two? Or is there no difference for you?

Todd Pletcher: I wouldn’t say there’s a big difference. We would still be preparing these horses for other races even if it weren’t the Derby. But like I said, anytime there’s a race, just like the magnitude, you’re a little more anxious about it. But it’s a good kind of anxious and excitement.

Art Wilson: OK. Well, good luck in nine days.

Todd Pletcher: Thanks very much.

Operator: Thank you.

Our next question is from the line of Beth Harris.  Your line is now open.  

Beth Harris: Hi, Todd. This is going to be the first Lasix-free derby. And I’m wondering, we have a relatively small sample size of running today’s races without Lasix. What affects are you seeing from the race they ban?

Todd Pletcher: Well, in the three-year-old cases, a lot of these – a lot of horses have never run on Lasix because they won’t allow Lasix since two-year-olds. Some of them – most of them did run on Lasix in some that are growing older. Perhaps none of the preparations were allowed to have any Lasix. Some of them run (inaudible).

I think with this particular crop, for my cohort, it’s not been an issue.  I can’t speak for everyone else.  But I think some of the bigger concerns are around older horses that maybe have been running on Lasix for three, four, five years and then have to come off with it.  But bleeding can be an issue for horses, with or without Lasix.  And the work that the group we have, it’s not a problem for.  

Beth Harris: In what ways have the new rules change the way you train?

Todd Pletcher: To be honest, they have not.

Beth Harris: OK. Thank you.

Operator: Thank you.

Our next question is from the line of (David Renning).  Please go ahead.  

(David Renning): Hi, Todd.

In addition to having a lot of horses in the race, between the Oaks and the Derby, I’ve count seven stallions that you trained.  I was wondering, how much pride do you take into seeing something like that?  And the fact that so many of your horses have gone to become productive and successful stallion?  

Todd Pletcher: Yes. I mean, it’s something that we’re very proud of, that a lot of the horses that we train have gone on to be successful stallions, and even mares, and (inaudible). We train (inaudible) as well.

But I think it’s a real credit to our program that the horses that we train can go on and have successful breeding careers.  And especially some of the stallions like more than ready have had not only terrific careers but extended careers as well.  

(David Renning): And a question about Malathaat. You didn’t run her until April. I know you’re planning on the Gulfstream Oaks in late March. But were you always planning on just one race? Or did you get late in her preparation earlier in the year?

Todd Pletcher: Yes. We had a minor setback at the later first start. We are considering running her in (inaudible) as a prep for the – either the Gulfstream Oaks or the Ashland. We had a little bit of a setback. And so then we’re planning on the Gulfstream Oaks. (Inaudible), we postponed running until the Ashland out of his respect to him.

So I feel good about where she is.  I feel great about the fact that she was able to win the Ashland (after lay off) and did a great one win.  And so far, the indications are the four weeks in between is going to be enough time.  So we’re hoping that it works out.  But yes, originally, we’re planning on two preps.  

(David Renning): I could think of one more. Just do you have a rider for Sainthood?

Todd Pletcher: Do not.

(David Renning): Thank you.

Operator: Thank you.

The next is from (Charles Walker).  Your line is open.  

(Charles Walker): Yes. Hey, Todd.

You were once in a position, I think, that Brad Cox is in now, where you kind of made the jump from a very successful trainer to a trainer who was getting a lot of attention for maybe more casual fans.  I wouldn’t ask you to speak for him obviously, but what was that experience like for you?  

Todd Pletcher: Well, you know, I think, you get – when you get to that level, like you said, more people recognize you, and the expectations increase. And so that’s ultimately the position that you’re hoping to get to as a trainer. And Brad has done a terrific job of building a really, really strong stable. And he’s doing all the right things with it.

(Charles Walker): And then also, how do you – how do you (inaudible)? Do you see it as fairly wide open or…?

Todd Pletcher: I think it’s wide open. I think Essential Quality is a deserving favorite with an unbeaten record. But I think that it’s an open race. And just being here at Churchill for the last couple of weeks, it looks like a group of horses are training extremely well.

(Charles Walker): OK. Thanks.

Operator: Thank you.

Again, if you would like to ask a question, you will need to press star-one on your telephone.  

And as a reminder, please limit your question to one and one follow-up.  

Your next question is from the line of (Stephen Lionel).  Please go ahead.  

(Stephen Lionel): I think on Bourbonic here, and obviously a great ride in Wood Memorial. Just curious your thoughts on Kendrick in his first mile in the derby.

Todd Pletcher: Kendrick has been riding really, really well. I mean, I think he’s a very accomplished rider. But over the past seven or eight months, he’s taking his game to a new level. And by having a successful run like he did at Aqueduct in the Fall Meet, it increased his opportunities and given him a chance to ride better and better horses. And he’s delivered in most cases.

(Stephen Lionel): Thank you.

Operator: Thank you.

The next question is from Michael Specter.  Your line is now open.  

Michael Specter: Hi, Mr. Pletcher. Thank you for taking the time to join us today.

All four of your horses seem to want to come from off-the-pace.  Do you the think the pace in this year’s derby will be as fast enough?  And where would you want to see them sit early in the race?  

Todd Pletcher: Well, I’m hoping for a fast pace. Because like you said, most of the four horses will be off the pace a little bit.

I think, probably, Sainthood and Dynamic One would be a little bit closer to the pace.  Then Known Agenda I would see being kind of in the backend of the second tier.  And then actually, Bourbonic, we’re going to try to apply the same tactics we did in the Wood, which is sit back and make one-way run.  

Michael Specter: Thank you so much, Todd. And good luck at the Derby and the Oaks on this.

Todd Pletcher: Thank you.

Operator: Thank you.

The next one is from Lynne Snierson.  Please go ahead.  

Lynne Snierson: Hey, Todd.

It’s a bit off-topic, but obviously a big undercard over the weekend.  And I’m just wondering if you’re thinking about anything for the Longines Distaff Turf Mile or the Churchill Downs at this stage?  

Todd Pletcher: Up this stage, no.

Lynne Snierson: Thank you.

Operator: Thank you. There are no further questions at this time, sir. Please continue.

Jim Gluckson: All right. Todd, I just have – the one follow-up that I do want to ask you is, you’ve been doing this for a long time. But I do want to know your feelings about what it was like after you had won your first Kentucky Derby?

Todd Pletcher: It was many, many emotions. One was relief for finally winning it. Two was pure excitement and joy. And the thing that I really enjoyed most about it was having my mom and dad there to see it.

Jim Gluckson: Excellent. Well, it was terrific for them. And to win twice is even better.

We thank you very much for joining us on the call today.  And good luck to you next week.  

Todd Pletcher: Thanks very much.

Jim Gluckson: OK. Thanks. Todd Fletcher, everyone.

We’re going – either we’ve tried to reach out now for Brad Cox as our next guest.  But we’re trying to put him into the queue in just a second.  So just stand by for one second please.  

Brad Cox: Hello?

Jim Gluckson: Hi. Is this Brad?

Brad Cox: Hi. Hello? Hello? Hello?

Jim Gluckson: Who is joining the line? Is this Brad?

Brad Cox: Yes. This is Brad.

Jim Gluckson: Hi: Jim Gluckson here. How are you?

Brad Cox: Hi. Good, Jim. Good, Jim.

Jim Gluckson: Good. Thank you for joining us.

We’re going to – we just wanted to say, great year for you so far.  Brad Cox here is a reigning Eclipse Award winning trainer, Louisville native, and what likely a derby favorite this year.  And of course, in addition to Essential Quality, he has Smarty Jones winner and a runner-up in the Arkansas Derby, Caddo River; and of course, the Risen Star Stakes winner in Mandaloun.  

I wanted to begin the discussion with you about Essential Quality and how things are going to well, as expected, this year?  And just talk about, if you could, his running style in this derby?  And why he’s such a – his chances are so good based on pedigree and his ability to get a mile-and-a-quarter?  

Brad Cox: Thanks for having me on, Jim.

First off, yes.  I mean, everything went really well to Essential Quality, really since we picked the horse up last spring – late spring-early summer.  He marched right through his (inaudible) campaign, accomplished enough to become (champion to hero).  

And then the plan all along was once he won the Breeders’ Cup was to have two races prior to the Kentucky Derby.  Those two races were the Southwest and Blue Grass.  We just thought those made the most sense as far as get him to – or giving him the best shot to get to the – for Saturday in May in peak condition.  

And all of that went extremely well or to plan to this point.  And very happy with how everything has played out.  

As far as – Jim, what was the second part of the question?  I’m sorry.  

Jim Gluckson: Just the fact that, as far as his pedigree and what not of sitting in a mile-and-a-quarter.

Brad Cox: Yes. Yes. I mean, and as far as he’s an adaptable horse. He’s able to – he broke his maiden going three-quarters. And he’s followed it up with some three victories in a mile-and-a-sixteenth, and past a mile-and-an-eight test last time.

I think he should be able to handle the mile-and-a-quarter.  He showed us pretty much from the start that distance should not be an issue at any point.  Moving forward, we’ve always thought he could be a mile-and-a-quarter, or even mile-and-a-half horse.  

So it just gives you a lot of confidence training him.  And we’re looking forward to this challenge in the Kentucky Derby.  

Jim Gluckson: Very good. And what about his final major work before the derby? What day (inaudible)?

Brad Cox: Right now, it’s Saturday morning. Earlier this week, it looks like we were going to have some wet weather Saturday morning. Right? And we are going to kind of monitor the weather Saturday morning. If we feel like we need to push it off until Sunday morning, we’re OK with that. We do feel like we would have a fast track on Sunday morning.

But the weather right now looks like it could happen Saturday at 5:15, is what we have penciled in for.  But we’re just going to watch the weather.  And we’re not – nothing is etched in stone at all with that right now.  

Jim Gluckson: All right. So just comment, if you would, just on Caddo River, his big improvement from the Rebel to the Arkansas Derby. Can you – after such a major effort in Smarty Jones, what did you do in between those two races to get him a little sharper of that Arkansas Derby?

Brad Cox: Well, it’s a great workhorse. He’s not really – we didn’t really do anything. We just kind of changed tactics from the Rebel to the Arkansas Derby.

You know, he’s a young horse.  He’s still learning.  We’re still learning what he wants to do.  I think we found out in the Rebel, the way he pulled up the back side that we kind of took the run out of him.  I wouldn’t second guess anything.  The jock, he did –I thought he did a fantastic job of trying to get the horse to rate.  He was not able to do it successfully.  

Then we turned our attention towards the Arkansas Derby.  He had two good works between the Rebel and the Arkansas Derby.  And I just thought we would send him out of there and be a little more aggressive and put him on the lead.  

It obviously worked in his favor.  I felt like we won the battle but we didn’t win the war.  We beat the horse that we were trying to beat in Concert Tour but obviously come up a little short with Super Stock picking us both off.  

But I think we learned that he’s a free-running horse.  And not necessarily think he has to be right on the lead but needs to be fairly close and kind of free-running horse that likes to just kind of (bound along).  And that’s what we’ll attempt to do in the Kentucky Derby.  

Jim Gluckson: All right. And finally, just to comment on Mandaloun’s progress since arriving at Churchill Downs earlier this month.

Brad Cox: Well, he catches the (odd). There’s no doubt about that. I know he would.

I’ve been around the backside of Churchill long enough to know that there’s always a horse that people are going to fall in love with the way they move, the way they gallop, and how elegant they are.  And he’s going to check all the boxes from a visual standpoint.  

His work last weekend was visually impressive.  Kind of more the same we saw – that’s kind of what we saw leading up – or we’ve seen at all winner.  And the obviously, we were hoping for better things in Louisiana Derby.  He didn’t perform.  

As well as we hope – obviously, he did come out in good order.  And he’s continued to impress people training and ourselves.  So we just thought we would just march forward to the Kentucky Derby to earn enough points through the Lecomte and the Risen Star.  

And now we’re hopeful that he’ll turn it around.  And I think if he shows up and runs the way he’s capable of, it will be a factor.  

Jim Gluckson: All right. Very good. Very good.

Well, Brad, thank you.  

Let’s just see if we have some questions on the line from the media, and checking.  

Operator: Again, as a reminder, if you would like to ask a question, you will need to press star-one on your telephone.

And as a reminder, please limit to one question and one follow-up.  

We have our first question from Michael Specter.  Your line is now open.  

Michael Specter: Hi, Brad. Thanks for taking the time to join us today.

Caddo River has ran its best on the early lead.  Do you think Caddo on the lead early will provide his best chance to win?  

Brad Cox: Yes. I do think it gives him his best chance to win. I mean, obviously, it can’t be a suicidal pace. But if he could get – be on the lead with some comfortable fractions, I think it definitely gives him his best opportunity to win.

Michael Specter: And where do you want Essential Quality and Mandaloun to sit early in the race?

Brad Cox: You know, somewhat forward. I mean, not obviously on the lead. But somewhat forwardly placed, I think, would be ideal for both horses.

Mandaloun has been able to win sitting off.  And obviously, he broke his maiden in sprinting.  I know that was sprinting.  But he was able to take the bounce around through horses and (inaudible), and was able to break his maiden in that way.  

So probably something like that.  As far as he goes, he’s going to be able to have – he’s going to have to take dirt, I think.  

And Essential Quality, the same time, he took dirt in Breeders’ Cup, circled horses.  Similar trip for both, I think, I kind of envisioned that as far as their derby trips.  

Michael Specter: Thank you, Brad. And good luck with your derby and ultra runners.

Brad Cox: Thank you very much.

Operator: Thank you.

Our next question is from the line of Tim Sullivan.  Your line is now open.  

Tim Sullivan: Yes, Brad. I spoke to Jimmy Bell yesterday. And he was talking about how impressed he was with the different ways that Luis had won on Essential Quality, and his versatility. I wondered if you could speak to that and what you’ve seen in the different kinds of races he’s had around.

Brad Cox: Yes. I mean, every race has been different, to be honest. Obviously, his first race was sprinting. He was taking dirt, tracking horses, went to a tight spot, (up and down to win), going three-quarters, going away with the big gallop out. (Inaudible) up close, set off with just one horse. He cleared down the lane, huge gallop out.

(Breeders’) – I’m sorry, Breeders’ Cup, they obviously got away from him.  He was a fast-pace upfront.  He just couldn’t keep up early, was wide around both turns, circled the field, got up going short stretch at Keeneland, the mile-and-sixteenth, a short stretch.  Once again, impressed with gallop out.  

And then just basically the Southwest, he was able to sit close to, I call it, a moderate pace.  And just kind of sitting in a great spot in the mud and kicked on down the lane.  

And then very similar trip in the Blue Grass with a fast track.  

So he’s able to obviously adapt to the pace.  Whether it’s hot, he can send off of it and come running.  Or if it’s moderate, he can be closer up on it and still finish.  

He’s, once again, very adaptable.  And it’s exactly what you want to see with a horse in a Kentucky Derby, as far as I’m concerned.  

Tim Sullivan: Thanks, Brad.

Brad Cox: Thank you.

Operator: Thank you.

Our next question is from the line of line of John McClane.  Your line is now open.  

John McClane: I think it’s been a goal of theirs to win the Kentucky Derby. What do you think it would mean to them to finally accomplish that goal? And can you talk a little bit about your relationship with Godolphin and with Mr. Bell?

Brad Cox: I mean, as far American racing, this is – in my eyes, it’s the biggest race there is. I think most people in the business, they would agree with that. And I know Sheikh Mohammed wanted to win the race for several years. He’s had different tactics as far as racing in (new ban), bringing a horse over.

And I don’t think there’s one set way of winning this thing.  It’s a very tough race to win.  And I think it means a lot that this is a (home) for him.  And trying for – I’m sorry, moving forward, trying for Godolphin for a couple of years, Essential Quality was part of the second crop of (heralds) we had received from them.  

We had (walked) with him.  I really enjoyed working with the whole team, Jimmy Bell, Dan Pride.  They had a classy organization that’s obviously dealing with some high-end bloodstock, some of the best bloodlines in the world.  And it’s been just a real honor to train for such a global empire and to have a horse like this.  

It just means a lot to us and to them.  And hopefully we could get them their first Kentucky Derby and mine as well.  

John McClane: Thanks, Brad. Good luck to you.

Brad Cox: Thank you very much.

Operator: Thank you.

Our next question is from (Frank Yan).  Please go ahead.  

(Frank Yan): Hi, Brad. Thanks for joining us today.

Brad Cox: Hey, (Frank). Thank you.

(Frank Yan): OK. Hey, in terms of Essential Quality’s development, how big has it been for him to do so much of his racing in Kentucky where he’s done most of his training?

Brad Cox: You know, he’s – I think it’s a good thing. It can only be a good thing when you have experience here at Churchill. He actually won last (inaudible) Kentucky Derby Day. (Inaudible), it was odd year, in September. I think that would be, maybe there will be a question as things play out, right, down the road.

(Frank Yan): Yes.

Brad Cox: But, yes. You know, I can’t be nothing but advantage him being here at Churchill. You know, did a lot of his prep – all of this work leading up to the Breeders’ (inaudible) and Breeders’ Cup, and his works were at Churchill.

So this is really home-base.  He’s obviously won three races of Keeneland.  And it’s kind of his home away from home.  But I do think of Churchill as being his home-base, with having breezed there so many times.  And it’s nothing but a good thing as far as I’m concerned with him having so much – so many spins around the Churchill oval.  

(Frank Yan): Churchill has really put in a nice meat there in September. Did you give any thought of taking this horse to Saratoga or something like that? Or were you just really taking advantage of getting that first start at Churchill?

Brad Cox: I’m more of taking advantage of having him there at Churchill. I mean, I thought he was a really, really good horse.

I think – I can’t remember if there was, the exact date.  But I think we debut Caddo River that week as well at Saratoga going seven-eighths.  

So we obviously thought Caddo River was a good horse when he’s getting started.  And as far as back to Essential Quality, he was a colt that I thought – we’ve started him at Keeneland.  He did a good bit of his work there.  And thought, look, we’re going to bring him to other side of the state, the Churchill, and it’s worked out really well.  We did most of his gait works there at Churchill and showed us enough – he showed us enough to make us think he was a good horse.  

(Frank Yan): Thanks so much, Brad. I appreciate it.

Brad Cox: Thanks, (Frank).

Operator: Thank you.

Your next question is from the line of Gary Graves.  Please go ahead.  

Gary Graves: Very good. Good afternoon, Brad.

Brad Cox: Yes.

Gary Graves: I guess we’re all to talk about your Derby horses. Your Oaks horses are overlooked and you got another favorite with Travel Column in coaching the field. What about Travel Column gives you a good feeling about winning another Oaks?

Brad Cox: Well, she’s done nothing wrong, really. I mean, she’s very, very good filly. She was very similar form early on as Essential Quality. We kind of thought she was our top two-year-old filly, as well as Essential Quality our top two-year-old colt at the time.

I would say, on September of last year, she was similar thing.  Was ran, I believe, on Oaks, the day broke her maiden, went straight (inaudible).  Didn’t quite break as well as we thought and then followed that up.  

We talk about going to the Breeders’ Cup.  We would have been able to get in.  That’s our best thought.  Let’s just give her the time.  Let’s her spring her along.  

He talked about (inaudible) and the Golden Rod.  I said, “Look, let’s just go to Golden Rod.  This is a good filly.”  And it worked out well.  And then she followed that up with a good effort in the Rachel, at the Fair Grounds, and then the Fair Grounds Oaks.  

So she’s accomplished filly.  She’s won two graded stakes.  She’s had a nice battle with Clairiere in the last three races.  And I think those two fillies are two of the top fillies in the field.  And it will be a good match-up.  

And it’s a good deep group of three-year-old fillies from top to bottom.  But I’m looking forward to another Kentucky Oaks next Friday.  

As far as Coach, another one that’s had some success at Churchill, she won (inaudible), which a two-year-old and was good third behind Travel Column and Clairiere in the Golden Rod.  

And she moved forward on our last race.  She won (at Oaklawn).  She moved forward on our last race (inaudible).  And we’re going to need a similar move forward once again back in four weeks in the Kentucky Oaks.  

She’s a good filly, which is another filly that done a lot of retraining at Churchill.  And hopeful that she can take that next step.  

Gary Graves: Great.

Brad Cox: Thank you.

Operator: Thank you.

We have our last question from the line of Jessie Oswald.  Please go ahead.  

Jessie Oswald: Hi, Brad.

You won your First Grade 1 Stakes only three years ago with Monomoy Girl.  And in that, the course over the last three years, you’ve been, I think it’s seven Breeders’ Cup wins.  You’re an Eclipse Wining Trainer now.  You got Multiple Graded Stakes.  You’ve got five going to the Oakland Derby this weekend.  And three in the derby, with one of them being the favorite.  

Can you reflect on your success in the last three years?  And is there one thing that you would credit with that success? 

Brad Cox: Yes. The one thing is good horses, for sure. But there are several things that put us in this position.

I mean, clientele.  We have great clientele.  Great help.  Great assistant trainers.  So I mean, I have a lot of help.  And we got the right people in the right place.  Very blessed to have great clienteles supporting us with great bloodstock.  

When you have a client like Larry Best sending you fillies like Travel Column, I mean, I’m not going to say it’s easy but it helps you.  And then obviously, we have the likes of (inaudible).  

In the (makeshifts), it definitely gives you an opportunity to play at the high end.  And then obviously our help – we – like I said, our clienteles give us the opportunity.  And our help put us in place.  They’ve executed and performed of the mornings with training and schooling and preparing these horses.  And it pays off in the afternoon.  

And so just, I’m very fortunate to be in that position.  And we’ve come a long way over the last three years.  And continue – hopefully, we continue to move forward.  

Jessie Oswald: And you talked earlier about what it would mean to the Godolphin to win the Derby. But what would it mean to you as a Louisvillian growing up just around the block from the track?

Brad Cox: Probably the biggest accomplishment – and I can’t say that they’re being won any bigger as far as the thoroughbred industry goes in my eyes. We’ve been very fortunate to win two Kentucky Oaks, seven Breeders’ Cup races, and Eclipse Award. And those are things that I’ll never forget and very proud of those.

But Kentucky Derby is number one.  I’m not bashful about saying it.  It’s – we have a lot of goals.  It’s not just the Kentucky Derby but that is number one and it would mean a lot.  So it would be a great accomplishment, to say the least.  

Jessie Oswald: Thank you. Best of luck to you.

Brad Cox: Thank you very much.

Jim Gluckson: All right. Brad, thank you very much for joining us and talking the call today. Good luck to you in the Kentucky Derby and all the racing for next week. Thanks very much for having – for coming on today.

Brad Cox: Thanks, Jim. I appreciate it. Talk to you soon.

Jim Gluckson: Great. Thank you. Brad Cox, everyone.

Now let’s right away bring in our next guest that’s been patiently waiting, is John Sadler.  John Sadler has, of course, Rock Your World, the winner of the Run Happy Santa Anita Derby, who is with us today.  John, welcome.  

John Sadler: Good morning.

Jim Gluckson: How are you?

John Sadler: Good.

Jim Gluckson: Good. John, there’s a very interesting development with your horse. I think it’s been discussed previously.

But your interesting work pattern here, three races undefeated.  Two coming off the Turf, and one in January, in New Year’s Day, and one in February in the Pasadena.  And then an explosive win in the Santa Anita Derby by four-and-a-half – four-and-a-quarter length.  

Just discuss with you that progression coming from the Pasadena and the Santa Anita Derby.  And what your expectations were?  And were you surprised by how well that he got it accomplished?  

John Sadler: Well, a couple of things. We always kind of believe through (inaudible) this horse can run on either surface. I’ve watched (the sister) run over here in California grass. So early on, we decided if we’re going to run at the grass, get a couple of races into him, and then try among (inaudible) the big day.

As you know, if you’re going to Kentucky, if you run on (the last grass), you get 100 points or 50.  So you’re unlucky and you’re second, you’re in.  I mean, if you’re not (one, two) in the one of the last preps, you may not want to go anyway.  

Jim Gluckson: Right.

John Sadler: So we saw a good round on either surface. And we’re not (suck) the way he ran the other day, but we’re very pleased.

Jim Gluckson: All right. Just as a point-of-view, a point that other people have asked me about this. How do the name of the horse comes out?

John Sadler: When we bought him (inaudible), two owners, Kosta Hironis and Michael Talla bought him together and Kosta said that Mr. Talla could name him. So he named him Rock Your World. And I don’t know how he got there. But Mr. Talla was the horse-namer.

Jim Gluckson: All right. And also just about the horses’ final major work, do you have that planned out yet?

John Sadler: Yes. He’s going to work Saturday.

Jim Gluckson: OK. He’s going to work – all right. He’s going to work Saturday.

All right.  Let’s, at this point now, open it up for some questions from the media on the line, John.  Thank you.  

John Sadler: Sure.

Operator: Thank you.

Again, as a reminder, if you would like to ask a question, you will need to press star-one on your telephone.  

Please limit your question to one and one follow-up.  

We have our first question from the line of Art Wilson.  Please go ahead.  

Art Wilson: Does it seem possible to you that it’s been 28 years since you settled your first (WRs)?

John Sadler: No. When you’re training these horses every day, the years kind of roll on by. So I’m glad you told me that. I didn’t realize it’s been that long. But we’re looking forward to it. And it feels good to go back after a few years.

Art Wilson: Now, from the time that you sent (Cody) back there until now, all the experience you’ve gained since then, anything you think you’ve learned that you do differently now preparing the horse for the derby as opposed to maybe back when you were training (Cody), number of preps, anyway that you would prepare?

John Sadler: Well, you always evolve as a trainer. My life – the best trainers that were ahead of me, they were always learning something new and new things. So I hope I am included in that. I try not to be locked down on just one thing I do. I try to have an open mind.

And I think you see that in the preparation.  We took a very young, non-conventional route.  And it appears to be working for us.  So we hope that that one goes as well.  

Art Wilson: And just real quick, (inaudible). Any doubt from your mind, whether in your fore mind or back mind about the way you will ship him?

John Sadler: About the what?

Art Wilson: The way you’ll fly – flying out of California for the first time?

John Sadler: Yes. I mean, shipping is always a concern. But we think he’ll do fine. And when I look at the weather at Churchill the last couple of days, I’m glad I’m in California.

Art Wilson: OK. Good luck, John.

John Sadler: Thank you.

Operator: Thank you.

Our next question is from the line of (John Swacker).  Please go ahead.  

Jim Gluckson: I think we should go to the next question, please.

Operator: Our next question is from the line of Lynne Snierson. Your line is open.

Lynne Snierson: Oh thank you. My question was actually for Brad. So I’ll just say, good luck. Good luck, John. Lots of good luck to you.

John Sadler: Thank you very much.

Operator: Thank you.

Our next question is from the line of Beth Harris.  Please go ahead.  

Beth Harris: Hi, John. This is going to be the first Lasix-free derby. And we have a relatively small samples size of running stakes races without Lasix. What effects are you seeing from race they ban?

John Sadler: Well, when you train to a large stable like mine, you have a little bit of everything. You have some horses that struggle with that. I’ve had some older horses, and I have to say no more stakes for them. They’ve got to run in the easier races. They weren’t capable of running without Lasix.

And then you hope each equally, that if you’re a fairly big barn, that you have some that will rise up because they don’t need Lasix.  And hopefully they’ll go up.  

So we usually have a balance.  Some good, some bad.  So that’s what we’re seeing on the ground.  

Beth Harris: How do you see the no-Lasix rule affecting public perception of this Board?

John Sadler: I mean, obviously, that’s what the races authorities are hoping. To me, I have never – I have never really felt – I’ve never had a fan come up to me and say, “Geez, Lasix is bad.” People want to go to the races and have fun and watch good horses run. Whether it’s a Kentucky Derby or opening date of Del Mar, or all the big days, are thrilling for the fans.

So that might be a question for somebody else.  But for me, I hope everything goes well.  We race under all the rules that were given.  We have a lot of rules in California, you know.  I mean, I think this pendulum is swung a little bit to one side more than the other.  But hopefully we’ll get the right win.  

Beth Harris: Thank you.

Operator: Thank you.

We have our last question from the line of (Paul Halpern).  Please go ahead.  

(Paul Halpern): Hi, John. How are you?

John, just briefly, you gave a very thoughtful reasonable explanation after you announced the jockey switch.  Can you understand how people would completely understand that explanation but still not necessarily like it, mainly out of some type of empathy for Umberto?  

John Sadler: Oh absolutely. That was a really tough decision for me. I lost a lot of sleep on it. But it’s like – what’s the word? Algorithms? Or what’s the word in sports now that they use on the baseball or the basketball when you make these decisions? I can’t think of it now. But…

(Paul Halpern): Analytics.

John Sadler: Analytics. You know, we watched for years out there with (inaudible) every day and they got all the money.

So if you look at Rosario’s history with me, some journalist sent me this, that he’s won more races with me than any trainer in the country, more money with me than any trainer in the country, we’ve won titles before.  And so we have a long, rich history.  So this is the way we decided to go.  

But I empathize completely with Rispoli.  He did nothing wrong.  He rode the horse very, very well.  And it’s a tough one.  But I mean, we’ve all, in this game, if I’ve had good horses leave my barn to go somewhere else, nothing is easy.  But if you’re a professional, you’re going to roll with the punches, and then things will work out.  

So I understand why everybody would think that.  And they’re not wrong in thinking that because – you know.  

On the other hand, the other thing you got to look at is, when the jockey leaves you, when the horses won, he rides something better, does anybody empathize with the trainer?  I don’t know.  

But it can go both ways, and certainly not an easy topic.  And I don’t think there is a right or a wrong answer.  It’s just that I had to do, make the call (inaudible) what I thought is best for us.  And that’s what I did.  

I’m certainly rooting for Concert Tour and the Arkansas Derby.  But it didn’t happen.  So we ask that (inaudible) were played and we’re going to play it.  And I hope that we get lucky.  

(Paul Halpern): Great. Thanks, John.

John Sadler: You got it.

Jim Gluckson: OK. Great.

John, thank you very much for joining us today.  Terrific beginning of the season for you and Rock Your World.  And good luck to you in the Kentucky Derby.  Thanks very much.  

John Sadler: Hey, thank you so much. We look forward to being there.

Jim Gluckson: Great. John Sadler, everyone. Thank you.

Now joining us on the line will be another two-time Kentucky Derby winning trainer, Doug O’Neill, the trainer of the twinspires.com Louisiana Derby winner, Hot Rod Charlie.  Doug, thanks for joining us today.  

Doug O’Neill: Of course. Thanks for having me.

Jim Gluckson: Oh, you’re very welcome.

Doug, we have – we’ve seen great confidence in Hot Rod Charlie boosting from race to race, 95 to 1 in the TVG Breeders' Cup Juvenile, and he nearly wins it.  And then finishes a third by a neck in the hard-knocking Bob Lewis in his debut.  And then really took charge and dominated the Louisiana Derby at one-and-three-sixteenth miles.  Can you talk about his development and his maturity that will lead up to this Kentucky Derby?  

Doug O’Neill: Yes. He’s such a talented colt. He’s a tall, rangy colt. He’s a half-brother to Mitole which would make you think, “Maybe he’s a one-turn dynamite sprinter.” But as we’ve got to know him, and he’s got to know us, he’s told us with blinkers on. He’s a two-term (dirt) horse.

So it took us a little while to get on the same page with him.  But he’s just a real sociable colt.  He’s just a huge asset to our barn, obviously.  And he’s shown his maturity in shipping to places like Kentucky already.  At Keeneland, like you talked about the previous cup, and then shipping to Louisiana.  

And that’s such a huge strong trait to have for a top race horse to be able to travel and take your ability with you on the road.  So we’re really excited about him and optimistic for May 1.  

Jim Gluckson: All right. Well, just talk about again about the strategy of running in Louisiana Derby, knowing there will be a longer break between it and the Kentucky Derby and a prep at a mile-and-three-sixteenth.

What went through?  What was the process of deciding there, as opposed to staying home running in the Santa Anita Derby?  

Doug O’Neill: You know, I think the spacing, we like a little bit better. It gave us a little bit more time between our final prep in Kentucky Derby. We thought – seeing that he run so well in the road and Breeders’ Cup shipping would be a strenght as well.

And then at the time, having Joel stay on him, we thought that was a strenght too.  So – and it was million dollar (pros).  So a lot of it is just kind of your gut, your feel, and that stuff.  And that’s particular time that worked out perfect.  And I couldn’t be happier with the extra time in between that final press and the derby.  

Jim Gluckson: All right. Well, Doug, let’s see. We have some questions here on the line for you. And let’s go to that section please.

Operator: Again, if you would like to ask a question, you will need to press star-one on your telephone.

We have our first question from the line of (Curtis Callaward).  Your line is now open.  

(Curtis Callaward): Hi, Doug. Thanks for taking time for us today. I’m excited that I’ll get to talk to too many fellow Michigan natives in this sports. This is a fun time for me.

You preemptively chose the rider for Hot Rod Charlie rather than wait.  So what made Flavien Prat the right fit to ride Hot Rod Charlie in the Kentucky Derby?  

Doug O’Neill: Oh man. Great. Thanks.

Great talking to you.  Midwest is best.  Michigan – I’m so proud to be a Michigan and they’re best.  

With that, both Joel and Flavien are just world-class riders that you just feel so grateful to have them work alongside your race horse and to be able to compete with them.  

So after the Louisiana Derby, Joel’s agent is one of the best in the game.  He asked if we could wait until after the Arkansas Derby to decide.  And we said, sure.  And then in the meantime, Flavien had been working Hot Rod.  

So after Concert Tour (Cup B), we figured it was kind of a no brainer that we keep Joel.  But his agent needed a few more days and we’re worried about losing Flavien somewhere else.  

So we just kind of hold it up, put our heads together, and said, “Listen, we’re not going to – we’re going to be in great shape whether we have Joel or Flavien.  We just want to make sure we have one of them.”  And Flavien was able to commit, so we jumped on that.  

(Curtis Callaward): And then last question, Doug. The timing for the Kentucky Derby for him, you were spacing out the races where you went Robert B. Lewis, and in six weeks, Louisiana Derby. Some people thought that maybe you were running away from life is good when you went to Louisiana Derby. So especially with him out of the picture, where does Hot Rod Charlie sit in the derby picture in your mind?

Doug O’Neill: Well, I’m biased, of course. This picture looks pretty clear and pretty nice to me at this time. But as we all know, in this sport – in any sport, I guess, it’s one day at a time.

But with Hot Rod would likely – is it going to be out of the picture?  I think Hot Rod has got a big, big chance.  Obviously, Brad Cox’s colt, who’s already beat him, he is an extremely talented colt in Essential Quality.  I just heard a little bit of the talk with John Sadler and his colts (inaudible) colt as well.  

And Bob still has another one in Medina Spirit.  And I’m not naming a bunch of other horses from back east that are super talented.  

So – but I think Hot Rod Charlie, we were extremely optimistic.  We were – (when we’re to draw), we think we’re bringing a super talented colt to Churchill.  And with a little bit of luck, I think we’ll be right there at the wire.  

(Curtis Callaward): Awesome. Good luck, Doug. Thanks so much.

Doug O’Neill: You too. Thank you.

Operator: Thank you.

The next one is from Brad James.  Please go ahead.  

Brad James: Hi, Doug. Thanks for your time today.

Doug O’Neill: Of course.

Brad James: I was wondering if you could sort of describe this large and diverse ownership group you have with this colt. And if I read correctly, this is the first derby for each. Do you find yourself sort of training them on this experience as we get closer?

Doug O’Neill: That’s a great question. You know, it’s a great group of guys.

We got a guy, Greg Helm, who’s very successful businessman, and his group of friends and partners in Roadrunner.  And then we got Bill Strauss who was – he started Proflowers.  And he’s super successful businessman.  And he’s been in the – both Greg and Bill have been in the business for quite a while.  

And then we got my nephew Patrick, who’s 28 years old, a graduate of Brown University, and four of his fellow Brown football players put together this (Boat Racing Group).  So Patrick, he knows the sport.  He’s been with me to a lot of races throughout the years.  But a lot of his buddies were turned on to the sport through Patrick.  

And I remember one of the funniest stories was just, when they moved into the fraternity, and all these football players, and Patrick’s biggest plea was, “We got to get TVG on this TV in the living room.”  So they’re like, “What the heck is TVG?”  

So Patrick has really brought a lot of his friends into this sport, which is a beautiful thing.  And you know, I often say horses are reflections of the people surrounding them.  And we just got a really cool group of people surrounding Hot Rod Charlie.  And he’s a cool horse himself.  And it’s been a great journey so far.  And we’re hoping he can still continue.  

Brad James: They obviously will watch a lot of Kentucky Derbies. But what will they not know about it as an owner until they go through this one?

Doug O’Neill: What will they not know as an owner until they go into this one?

You know, this one will be a little bit – yes.  You know, it’s just – God, well, you know – I mean, the one think about Kentucky Derby, is that, even people who don’t know about horse racing have heard of Kentucky Derby.  So that is – and so now you’re being part of a tradition that is just priceless.  

And then the city of Louisville is just, oftentimes, especially the week of the Derby, I think, like everything shuts down.  And I thought everyone is talking about it.  What do you like?  Who do you like?  

So I think they’re going to enjoy the heck out of it.  And it is all thanks to Hot Rod Charlie taking us all there.  And I think they’ve already shown – and the Breeders’ Cup was kind of eye opening event for them.  And they danced right with that and enjoyed every minute of it.  

So I think the derby, though it’s a little bit higher on the totem pole there of tradition, they’re going to (choke) it all in.  And (when there’s a draw), they’re going to have a time of their life.  

(Brad Chains): Very good. Thanks for your time today.

Doug O’Neill: Of course. Thank you.

Operator: Thank you.

Our next question is from the line of Gary Graves.  Please go ahead.  

Gary Graves: Hey, good afternoon.

I guess kind of following up what you were saying about the derby’s effect on the local, do you kind of see that buzz this year coming back just after everything that happened last year with first being delayed until September, and then not having an event, kind of feel that energy coming back now?  

Doug O’Neill: I do. And I know they’re only going to have like 40,000 people there, I think. But it’s still – the energy surrounding Churchill Downs is, from my experience, is just awesome. And they got the awesome campus, the University of Louisville, right smack there. So you just got a great mixture of people coming in to watch races, students that live in the area coming around.

Just great energy, great tradition.  And I do feel that – like you say, last year was just so unique in so many ways.  And it does feel like we’re heading the right way in a lot of different areas.  

So I feel the buzz, the positive buzz.  And I think it’s going to be, maybe not your traditional (pray) the Churchill Downs here because they’re still going to limit the attendants.  But it’s going to be a race of a lifetime for these guys and me and for Hot Rod.  

Gary Graves: Yes. As a follow-up, I guess with Brad Cox kind of getting a lot of attention with having his first derby contenders like this. Do you get a chance to maybe talk to some other trainers in that position? And I guess, what is kind of your assessment of Brad, at this point, just with what he’s been able to bring the Churchill Downs with the fillies, as well as with colts?

Doug O’Neill: Yes. Those are types of things – I have reached out to others on my journey as a trainer, picking guys and gals’ brains what they did in certain situations and certain big races. So I’d be honored if Brad ever reach out to me.

But Brad is super successful, great horseman who – the numbers don’t lie.  He knows what he’s doing.  So I think, it’s really – as he get longer in the tooth in this sport, you’ll realize it’s all about the horse.  And you just try to do what’s right by your horse and the results will be what they will.  

Operator: Thank you.

We have our next question from the line of Art Wilson.  Please go ahead.  

Art Wilson: Hey, Doug. You settled your first derby horse in 2007. And in 14 years since, the experiences that you (inaudible), anything you do differently now that you’ve learned, anywhere from shipping plans to number of derby preps? Anything that you’ve learned along the way but maybe you’re doing differently now?

Doug O’Neill: That’s a great question, Art.

I think it’s kind of just an individual thing.  I know, as you go back to 2007, I was – probably a nervous wreck and way overthinking everything.  And as I have done it a little bit and now here we are in 2021, I do feel a lot more calm about the situation.  

And as far as shipping plans, I think a lot of it has to do with where your final prep maybe was.  If it was at Keeneland or something, of course, you just stay right there and train up to a bit.  

With this particular year, and Hot Rod Charlie being six weeks out of Louisiana, it made all the sense in the world to bring him back to California and pray for a normal beautiful weather where we could train daily and not have to worry about mother nature so much.  

But as far as preps go, I think, as I’m doing it a little bit longer, and we’ve seen Baffert do this too, less is more.  I think you want to bring a horse to – again, it’s all individual.  But I think for the most part, you want to bring a horse whose rail has really fresh legs, and has a good mind, and could (rest) and go a mile-and-a-quarter against 19 other horses.  They got to be laid on their feet and their tank is going to be full.  

Art Wilson: And my follow-up real quick, I asked John Sadler about this with Rock Your World because his horse here hasn’t shipped yet. How much of a calming influence for you? Is it comfort to know that Hot Rod Charlie is shipped and it doesn’t bother him?

Doug O’Neill: Art, honest to God, that’s a huge asset for us. And that’s – it’s very – it’s one last thing you’re concerned about, because until you do it, you just don’t know. And these barns are their homes. Right? So when you take them from one home, and you move them to another home, some are like no big deal, and some aren’t.

So knowing that Charlie has no problem moving home for competition is a big asset.  And I think it brings some more optimism to us as we go into the big dance here.  

Art Wilson: Thanks for your time, Doug. And best of luck.

Doug O’Neill: You too, Art. Take care.

Operator: Thank you.

Our last question is from the line of Beth Harris.  Please go ahead.  

Beth Harris: Hey, Doug. How are you doing?

Doug O’Neill: Good, Beth. How are you?

Beth Harris: Good.

This is going to be first Lasix-free derby.  And you know we’ve had the ban, of course, involved in two-year-old races.  But certainly, there’s kind of an overall small sample size of running stakes without Lasix.  And I’m wondering what effect are you seeing from this race they ban?  

Doug O’Neill: Oh, yes. That’s a tough question.

I would say it’s an individual thing.  And in an ideal world, if the horse doesn’t have any kind of tendency to have any kind of nosebleed, running without Lasix, they do seem to come out of the races with more energy, and they get back to their normal exercise energy quicker.  So they recover quicker, I think, without Lasix.  

So it’s something, I think, we all in this sport kind of knew it was coming.  Just – if you look around the world, most of the big races around the world are ran Lasix-free.  

So as much as I was apprehensive like, I think a lot of horsemen were and are, I think the longer we’ve done it, the more able to – I’ve been able to adjust.  And the horses have kept their form without it.  

Beth Harris: Do you train differently because of not having it on race day?

Doug O’Neill: You know, we (pool), feed and water. We have a little bit different diet leading up to works and races. Just we’re more thoughtful of not having much in their stomach for exercise, which probably, we should have been thinking of that.

Anyways, but – so just try to have them a little bit more light going into their works and races.  It’s definitely been something that we’ve been more conscientious of with no Lasix.  

Beth Harris: Thanks a lot.

Doug O’Neill: Of course. Thank you, Beth.

Operator: Thank you.

There are no further questions at this time.  Sir, please continue.  

Jim Gluckson: Doug, thank you very much. Great call today. I appreciate your time here on the call. And good luck to you on getting Kentucky Derby number three next week with Hot Rod Charlie.

Doug O’Neill: Your lips to God’s ears, Jim.

Thanks so much.  Take care.  

Jim Gluckson: All right, Doug. Doug O’Neill. Thanks everybody.

Thank you everyone for joining us.  There were a lot of people.  I’m sorry we could not get to everyone during today in our timeframe.  But I appreciate everyone joining.  

Again, the conference will be recorded – is recorded.  And will be on the NTRA website later today and the transcript tomorrow.  

We will be bank with another conference call probably around May 7, Thursday or Friday, after the Kentucky Derby, to preview the Preakness Stakes.  

So again, thanks everyone for joining.  And have a good day.  

Operator: This concludes today’s conference call. Thank you for participating. You may now disconnect. Have a great day.

END