It’s Jonathan Sheppard’s spot. It will always be Jonathan Sheppard’s spot. At the crest of the hill. Heartbreak Hill. In a natural nook, to the side of the last hurdle. A patrol judge, a couple of photographers, a veterinarian, a man with a shovel and a bucket of dirt. That’s it. … Read More

Still floating after our day Saturday. Watching Rocket One soar over the last to win the Marcellus Frost. A big, beautiful, proud horse who looked promising before missing almost two years. To win a novice stakes at Iroquois, any race at the Iroquois, take a big, deep breath and know … Read More

The Iroquois. Just watch.

And just like that, the Ferris wheel reaches the top. The spring season hits its zenith and starts its descent with the 84th running of the Iroquois Steeplechase. The bullseye, the fulcrum, the main event. Seven races worth $730,000. I’m watching Sportscenter and trying to decide when I need to … Read More

Six runners at the Iroquois. Two runners at Willowdale. The spring season – possibly the whole season – can be made in an afternoon. It could be the best card in American steeplechase history. Seven competitive races with full fields, including a split novice with the same purse ($125,000) in each … Read More