Congratulations to the defending Horse of the Year, Rachel Alexandra, after another impressive win against a questionable field in the Lady’s Secret over the weekend. The race had not been made “Official” yet, and already the debate had started. The most common conversation was the competition. “She faced no one; of course she was going to win,” was heard throughout the track. “Why doesn’t she face Zenyatta?” Alright, let’s take this one step at a time.

Well, for starters, I was in favor of this strategy for Rachel Alexandra’s 2010 campaign. In the first quarter of this year, she did not look like the same horse we saw in 2009. That could have been for a variety of reasons. The biggest being the campaign. Outside of the “Queen of the West Coast”, she had taken on everyone that was out there, and had given her all. The connections knew she was tired and the Breeders’ Cup would have only proven that. After two less than inspiring performances, one had to question whether or not she had a 4-year-old campaign in her. It seemed to be more of a case of confidence than ability. I always felt she might have been brought back a bit too early. It wouldn’t be the first time. As an owner, I know how tough it can be sometimes to just “Back Off”, even if they seem to be doing well. I’m sure the public along with, and YES I’m gonna say it – constant media attention – for the two ladies to get together, might have also played a role. If we were talking about a boxer, the connections would have given her a couple of “tune-up fights” to restart her fire, which it appears, they have done.

Now comes the hard part. If she is going to pick up where she left off? They will have to start looking for the competition. I’m sure there might be a disagreement here with a lot of people. Why is it up to them? Well, I guess it just depends on how you look at it. Money is not the question. There are plenty of big purses around the country, but if the connections are concerned with her historical relevance, then I would guess they will have to seek out the competition. By the way, I wouldn’t mind seeing a race with the Coaching Club American Oaks winner, Devil May Care.

And now the question, everybody wants to ask: Drum role please…WILL THEY EVER FACE ONE ANOTHER? I don’t know. Now before you take a collective sigh, it’s not that easy. Timing and luck will play the keys. Let’s remind ourselves for the 100th time, they are not machines. They are flesh and blood.

I’m sure the Mosses and Mr. Jackson would welcome it, but getting both to peak at the same time might be another story. Oh and what a story that would be. Neither camp have anything to gain by sending their champions, and they both are by the way, if they are not in peak form. Personally, I don’t see it happening. And that my friends, is for another day…….

Racing will be “Fast and Furious” this weekend as South Florida takes the center stage for “Summit of Speed” day, but it is the Empire State that sparks my interest as the marathon turf distance highlights the Belmont card.

Gio Ponti, the defending champion in the Grade 1 Man o’War Stakes appears to be primed and ready for a return to the winner’s circle.

Now I realize, that’s probably stating the obvious, but that last race was a lot better than some people have given him credit for. Granted, he was passed pretty easily by his stablemate Winchester at the wire, but I’m not so sure he saw him coming. It’s also worth noting: Horses coming from Dubai have not always faired well on their return to the U.S , which makes that effort even more impressive. The early pacesetter is questionable to be there when the real running gets started, and with an outside trip, I would assume he should get a great path at the top of the stretch. As far as the weather goes: possibility of rain, which is not an issue for him, all and all, I think Gio Ponti is a single for the Pick 4.

Grand Couturier is the X- Factor for my wagering activities. This 7-year-old on his best day could give this field one hell of a fight, but I’m not sure if the fight is still there. Granted he’s had his share of troubled trips, but I would have to see more of a kick down the lane to be convinced he is back. On the positive side: If it is indeed an “Off Track”, the softer going could definitely play into his hand. I say use him on the back end of the exotics.

Rain or shine, the Late Pick 4 looks intriguing so if you like a bit of rain, I say, take your shot . . .