After the running of the Grade 1 Travers Stakes, A Little Warm might end up En Fuego.

First time I had a glimpse of this one was back in New Orleans for the running of the Grade 2 Louisiana Derby. He ran an ultra game second over legit fractions.

What made this even more impressive was that he did this his first time going two turns. On his dam’s side is Alydar, so distance shouldn’t be a factor. There appears to be plenty of pace to set him up nicely in the second flight. I liked the way he finished in the Jim Dandy, and for my money he is the Now Horse in the race.

Fly Down: I’m willing to forgive the last effort as he lost all chance when he was checked hard in the latter stages of the race, but on the other hand he always seems to find trouble, so let the better beware.
The Dwyer and Belmont proved he deserves to be in this company, and should be found midpack early at what could be double-digit odds.

Ice Box: Was the Derby a fluke? No, but I do feel this is a horse who definitely at the mercy of the early pace. It seems the last two efforts he was taken out of his game, and suffered because of it. He will
have company in the starting gate with a stablemate in Miner’s Reserve, who should guarantee a strong pace. Now or never for the grandson of A.P.Indy.

Oh and by the way, I will be starting our first two year old for the Sean McCarthy barn at Del Mar on the nightcap of Pacific Classic Day. Her name is Tinner’s Bride, and I believe she will give a good account of
herself. Besides she’s a gray and you know how I love the grays. Good luck and save trip little lady.

That’s it. I’m off to Nebraska.

Why you ask? Long story short: I have a buddy who lives in Norfolk (population- 24,000) and thought it would be a great opportunity to get away. I’ve always been a big fan of small town USA, so it kind of fits.
But you know, there has to be a small track nearby, and as luck would have it, there is.

Columbus Racing, approx. 50 miles away, is a 23-day meet in the middle of the state. For the most part, it seems to attract the Fonner Park crowd along with some horses from Prairie Meadows and Canterbury Park.

Don’t really know much more about it, and that’s the way I like it. I can say one thing: took a look at the card, and it is contentious. Full fields with the possibility of a price or two. Downside: no Pick 4, but you can’t have everything.

Small town tracks are great, and I cannot wait. If you are in the area, come on by: I could definitely use the help…. See ya there.