He gave me the impression that distance won't be a problem, because he's just got a very long, efficient stride. He got in a real comfortable rhythm, and when I asked, he really finished. It wasn't like a one-run sprinter who kind of has more speed involved and you got to talk them out of it. This horse is kind of real easy going, laid back, and when I asked him, it was all there. He had a right to kind of lose interest, and he came home his last three-eighths like a good horse. I'm kind of excited about him. |
He ran a fantastic race. Blood and guts all the way to the wire. |
He ran a fantastic race. Blood and guts all the way to the wire. He's a fantastic racehorse. I wasn't looking for the lead, but my horse was keen and I didn't want to get into a fight with him. When he got alone, he idled better and when company joined him, he fought on again. It was a very game performance. |
He ran his heart out. That's the way he runs. If you don't go fast, he doesn't run. That's his weapon, and he uses it well. |
He's actually a horse who is better running faster than rating. He doesn't really change gears. If he comes out fast, he'll maintain his speed. If you go :23, he's not the kind who will finish with them. I've ridden him over the last three or four years and, every time I ride him, I just let him rock. He broke today like a scalded cat. |
I can see where people would put you under a microscope. I'm coming back this time a little more thoughtful. I'm not going to jump in right away and ride five or eight races a day. It might just be a couple at the start. But I'll be glad to be back. |
I think it's a testament to the athlete the horse is, and the training his trainer has put into him. I just think he's made him aerobically a more flexible, tougher athlete with the regimen he goes through. |
It has been kind of wearing on me. I got through the holidays OK but then it was like, 'OK, I want to get back to work.' Sure, it's frustrating but I have been through this before. |
It was an honor to be in this race with him. I also had to privilege to ride everyday in New York with him early in my career. There will never be another jockey with the passion and the love for the game like Angel has. |
It's so hard, especially when you get under so much scrutiny like in the Triple Crown, to be able to stick to the strength of your convictions. … Here's a guy who knows his horse, has confidence in his training and has stuck to his guns. |
Obviously, he's done a lot right his first three starts, and this is a big step up. I think he's earned his right to compete with them. Now let's see if he can do it. |