We’ve done the math. Redone the math. Checked the math. Like an accountant on April 14. It’s clinched. No matter what happens over the next 11 jump races this weekend, Riverdee has earned its first championship. With 13 wins from 50 starts for $506,700, we lead Bruton Street-US by $128,100, Irv Naylor by $212,200 and Leipers Fork Steeplechase by $228,950.
Whew. Phew.
Thanks to the partners, trainers, assistants, grooms, hotwalkers, jockeys, accountants, editors, family, fans and everyone who has contributed to our stellar season. Most of all, thank you to the horses. From leading earner Cool Jet to the ever consistent Queens Empire to the upstart rookie Ethics to the burgeoning novice Cyber Ninja to the timber topper Potus. To all of them. You make some team.
At a challenging point this fall, I said we have three goals. Riverdee to be champion owner. Jack Fisher to be champion trainer. Graham Watters to be champion jockey. And, yes, I have to admit, in that order. Check. Check. Check.
Unfortunately, Watters won’t be in Camden Sunday night to accept his trophy. The four-time champion jockey broke his arm in a fall Friday morning and will miss out on 11 rides this weekend.
“One thing I’ve learned this year, it doesn’t always end the way you want,” Watters said.
But there’s still work to be done.
We are heading down I-20 to the Aiken Fall Steeplechase today.
