November Week One: Scroll For Individuals
These are gallops for Witch Creek's Year Thirteen two year olds and the returning Indian Darling. These are not workouts, but are merely the stepping stones to their racing careers. Enjoy and start picking favorites.
Alucard& Supernatural. Prima Donna& The Devil's Hourglass.
Indian Darling& Flashpoint.
Indian Darling& Flashpoint.
ace in the hole
Courtesy of Event of the Year Photos.
Maggie and Reese were ready to rock and roll today. They'd been waiting for the time when they would truly get to compete against one another, either in a race or a workout. Strangely the workout match ups just hadn't worked out for them. It was only more interesting that the first time they would match up against one another wasn't actually going to be in a workout. Rather it would be galloping a pair of yearlings in preparation for next year. Year Thirteen. Reese and Maggie both had high hopes for Year Thirteen. Reese had Jabberwock and Bella Luna. Maggie had Wish Upon A Star and GS Royal Crown. None of their horses were considered top of Witch Creek's class, but all of them had stunning potential. And usually Ripley Marsh was capable of kneading that potential into real life.
However, it was the yearlings that were the topic of the day. Ripley had finally settled on a group that she approved of. Limited Edition had been sold and Flashpoint and Alucard had joined the team. Maggie would ride the now infamously cold Alucard for Witch Creek. Reese would ride one of three yearling fillies, the one she considered most beautiful. Supernatural. And it would be Supernatural against Alucard today. A simple gallop, but a gallop for the future.
Do you think Siri will be able to keep up with Alucard? Reese looked up from grooming her white-gray filly and glared at Maggie. She'll more than be able to handle him. Maggie hissed playfully in Reese's direction. The lioness speaks. You're afraid of what Alu can do. Ripley didn't just buy him because Finale Slew was his proud mama. Reese rolled her eyes. Maggie loved to rub this in every time she saw Reese. Reese's filly had been more of a charity case. Ripley just couldn't let a filly sit by the wayside, undeveloped. Rather she took them in and then hoped to find good homes for them. Usually she found great ones. But Siri had stayed. Reese hadn't even been a factor in the final decision to keep Siri. Everyone loved her.
At least Siri is well liked. You can't get anyone to even feed that cannibal you call a horse. Not even Connor or Justin will step into the ring with that thing. Siri turned her delicate head around to eye Reese. Her eyes were lit up with excitement, bright and wide as saucers. Her soft nostrils twitched eagerly and she nickered. Siri had a beautiful nature to her. She was well-mannered on the ground and nearly as pleasant in the saddle... As long as she wasn't on the track. Reese patted the filly's lithe shoulder. Siri faced forward, ears pricked as Ripley stepped into the barn, leading Indian Darling.
Jabberwock called romantically to the filly from just to the left of Alucard. Reese and Maggie both admired the leggy bay filly. If there was any horse Ripley had been smart to wait on it was this one. Her plain brown head twisted from side to side analyzing her surroundings. Her nostrils were flared and her neck was pulled taut. She was coming back to the racing barn after months of living in the broodmare barn. It was fitting. Ripley led the wild looking bay into the stall next to the racing office. Where she belonged. Darla poked her head out of the stall, eyes as bright as jewels. Ripley dusted her hands off, barely hiding the grin that was spreading across her face.
She looks great Ripley. I swear she's shot up in height. In fact I know she has. It was bright of you to keep her out so long. Ripley grinned and nodded. The auburn haired woman had to admit she was happy to see the daughter of Native Flame back where she was supposed to be. Preparing for her races. She pushed thoughts of hope to the back of her head and then turned her attention to Alucard and Supernatural.
Maggie ran a patient hand across her blonde hair. She had to deal with Ripley's scrutiny. Ripley had been particularly careful in searching out the next group of yearlings. And Alucard was one that she had extremely high hopes for. Maggie had no intentions of losing this particular mount. She stepped back and narrowed her sharp blue eyes on the son of Scrippture's Sapphire. The bay colt was quite large for a yearling, large and lanky. His dark bay frame seemed to tower over the women and the silver-white filly facing him. It had to do with how he held himself. His head was held high on his even neck, shoulders taunt, his hooves were nearly placed square. He looked very correct and very cold. Maggie found him endearing. Everyone else wanted to see what he could do on the race track before making a final judgement.
Maggie patted the colt's stiff neck, watching Alu's face. He barely acknowledged her presence, simply twitched the muscle beneath her hand and gazed straight ahead. He was one tough son of a gun. Maggie followed his intense gaze, would have stated that he was sending a direct challenge to Ripley, but couldn't be sure if he even saw her. Ripley cocked her head to the side, analyzed him, returning the coldness she saw. However, when she spoke there was warmth. He's an interesting character. Definitely not someone who will welcome the media, but maybe that'd be a welcome change around here.
Supernatural nosed Ripley's back pockets gently, ears pricked and head tilted. She clearly had the scent of treats lodged in her nose. Reese could only smile and shrug when Ripley turned with an eyebrow raised. The head trainer's green eyes glittered with welcome though and she eagerly stroked both sides of Siri's face. The white-gray filly relaxed as Alucard, standing taunt next to Maggie became even tighter in muscle. Maggie settled a soft hand on his neck, feeling some of the tension wane. Jealousy could happen no matter who you were or how strong you pretended to be.
Ripley moved to run her hands down both horses' legs, searching for warm spots, bumps or touchy spots. Both horses had ice cold legs that danced eagerly for activity. Over the last two months the horses had been being ridden around Witch Creek on the trails. Supernatural and Alucard particularly had been hard to handle on the woodsy and meadow paths. It was time to get them to the track. It was hard to identify anything against beginning the gallops. Both horses came from sturdy, stamina filled lines. It was time to get moving. Ripley stood up and walked to the barn entrance. Well this is it ladies and gents. We're heading out.
Reese and Maggie let out a respective hoot and clap, quickly slapping their gear on. The colt and filly didn't even flinch. They were used to the women of Witch Creek. Supernatural tossed her head in excitement. She even liked to think she was one of them. The women lead the horses outside, everyone shrinking away from the whipping winter wind. Ripley when are you going to invest in an inside track? Maggie shouted impatiently. Ripley, tucked into her thick winter boots, merely shrugged. After the Breeders Cup, we'll get the staff together and think about it.
Maggie and Reese exchanged glances. The usual money defensive Ripley would have laughed. But like Ripley's new philosophy that more may not be so bad, her other philosophy about not spending money was changing too. Perhaps more slowly, but it was there. Maggie cooed to Alucard as he danced away from her to the end of his lead. She stepped up, stroking a hand above his eye. The colt stared right through her, eyes distant and empty. Maggie sighed. She so wanted to get through to him, but it just wouldn't happen in these early days.
Reese had a far more friendly mount to deal with. The black haired woman swiftly mounted her princess white filly and grinned when Siri instantly took up the prance of a carriage horse. She swept down the path, her lean strides covering the ground at a quick rate. The silver-white filly knew exactly what her job was to be. Reese patted the filly's neck, turning back around to wait for Ripley and Maggie.
Maggie swung aboard Alucard, admiring his impressive youthful height. She could feel the power that shimmered beneath him. His emptiness did not carry from the ground to the saddle. He straightened up to his full height, practically rolling his shoulders as if warming himself up. Maggie could feel him slowly come to life, awakening from a long slumber. He bowed his head, touching his nose to his chest and finally met Ripley with a heated eye.
Ripley watched as the horse walked away to meet up with his more peppy stablemate. She suppressed her chills. He didn't have a mean bone in his body, but somehow he was still quietly intimidating. She watched him walk cockily away and could have sworn he'd just passed the ball into her court with a shrug. Finale Slew had thrown a tough cookie her way. The trainer tucked her hands into her pockets and followed the princess and the dark knight toward the track.
Supernatural snorted eagerly when Alucard joined her in her quick walk. She was a lot swifter than the big colt, more eager to please. Reese swayed in the saddle, appreciating the way the filly moved. She was smooth as glass in all of her quickness and extremely light on the mouth. Reese had to only touch with her fingers and it would have the filly shifting rapidly to the side of the path. Her parents had been willing horses as well and this filly was no different.
Maggie kept quiet on Alucard. Silence fit the colt like a fine suit. She didn't usually get along with quiet horses, but she would make an exception in this case. Who knew what he would become out on the race track. She and Ripley certainly didn't know, but they had high hopes.
The loamy sand track spilled out before the pair of yearlings. Their fine frames became taunt with excitement. Even Alucard finally woke up out of his haughty stupor. His legs pumped eagerly off of the ground, crow hopping and showing some bit of emotion for once. Maggie laughed and let him go at it, happy to see some racehorse blood appear in the son of Scripture's Sapphire and Finale Slew.
Reese too was having some fun with Supernatural. The Dylan Himself filly charged up the track, legs cruising over the sand. Reese stood tall in the irons, dark eyes bright and focused ahead. She didn't mean to let the filly move so soon, but she wanted to feel the wind and so it seemed, did Siri. Reese called to the filly as they drew close to the first turn, loosening the reins and motioning for the filly to settle down. Siri was obviously new and her legs zigzagged all over the track. Every time Reese managed to get the filly straightened out, something caught her attention and she kicked back into rabbit mode.
Alucard now stood prim and proper at the gap. His head was turned to focus on Supernatural, ears glued to her. Maggie merely sat. He was a difficult colt to know and a strange one. He should be like Siri, running like a coon hound after a rabbit. He simply was not. He was a pro already, taking everything in and analyzing it. Ripley was quiet nearby, noting Alu's presence, but keeping a keen eye on Siri.
The white filly can move, Ripley thought. Siri was indeed cruising over the track. Not straight, but certainly moving. Her lean frame covered the ground impressively, she sparkled like a gem. Reese was impressed as well. Ripley could tell by the way the woman leaned into the horse. It was an imperceptible move, but Ripley understood when Reese was interested in a mount and when she wasn't.
Maggie too was watching the filly, just as interested in the development of that particular horse, until Alucard decided it was time to run and gun. She barely had time to snatch at the reins before the dark bay colt bolted up the track. He'd practically gone from 0-40 in less then two seconds. His legs whipped over the course, large strides covering the ground in very little time. Maggie almost forgot she was dealing with a youngster so impressive was his speed. Alu marched over the dirt, knees lifting in an attempt to become accustomed to the dirt track.
As green as Siri was, Alu was not. His large frame moved straight and true, even in the turn. The colt did not switch leads as most older horses did, but that was to be expected. Some greenness was allowable. Maggie kept the reins light in her hands, keeping the colt moving nicely beneath her. He wasn't running off like most two year olds. He just was something else. Something impressive.
Ripley watched as Alucard rolled into the backstretch. Siri was making her way up the homestretch, practically powering along like a freight train. Reese was barely moving on her and Ripley liked that immensely. She wasn't being pushed at all and neither was Alucard. Ripley blew the whistle and Reese pulled the white filly up. Supernatural slowed down after a few tugs and being dragged out wide by Reese.
Ripley narrowed her eyes on Siri. She was definitely green, but had the talent to be extremely nice as a two year old. It was only the first gallop. Dismissing the filly, Ripley turned back to Alucard. He carried himself very correctly, his neck and head slightly above his shoulders, but not cranked up like Jabberwock. He looked like a powerhouse, chest appearing nice and wide as he spun around the far turn. Maggie looked as if she had a ton of horse beneath her. Ripley counted mentally the time and came up fourteen seconds for the furlong. Well in control and definitely not too hard on his bones.
Maggie's face spread wide with a toothy grin. Oh he was definitely impressive. She felt as if she had a pro grade one runner beneath her. She called to him, laughing when his ears became twin towers above his head. His stride lengthened and he gave her a nice taste of what was to come. Siri was coming back toward Ripley, toward them as Alucard cruised up the homestretch.
The ghostly white filly was peppy as ever, tossing her head, straining to get a real good look of Alucard as he just cruised under the wire. Reese narrowed her gaze on him. He wasn't even zigzagging. She patted her filly's neck as the jogged up the track. So he was impressive, but Siri had gotten faster with every single furlong. She just didn't look it. Ripley nodded to her when they arrived.
She looked smooth as glass. Definitely was powering coming into the stretch. But she's green as the grass in summer. We'll try blinkers and see what that does next time. Impressive on the turns though and she got the lead coming down the homestretch. Good Reese. Reese half-smirked. She really needed to give Ripley more credit. The woman saw more than Reese had expected. Reese leaned close and kissed Siri's pretty neck. Good girl. You just got the boss' approval.
Reese and Ripley both turned their attention to Alucard and Maggie. The bay was coming back pumped up as can be. He tossed his head and even whinnied to Siri. Like a completely different horse, Reese snorted. Ripley laughed. Completely. Maggie patted the colt's muscled neck, relishing in the fact that he could come alive somewhere, be himself somewhere. Just like herself, leaving it all on the track. As soon as they reached Reese and Ripley however, the colt shut himself down. He was still breathing a little hard, but his eyes once again turned distance and his movements became those of a quiet buck.
What do you think? Maggie asked anxiously. Ripley twisted her lips into a small frown, not giving her friend anything. He was impressive. Strong. Got stronger the further he went, just like Siri. He looks happy running where he doesn't here. He'll be a horse that'll need training every day. Like Siri he needs to be trained on lead changes mid-run, but we all know that comes with experience. He sure does look happy out there. Maggie nodded with a smile. Ripley was right. Alucard felt as if he'd been born to run. She leaned down, not caring if the colt hated affection, and kissed his warm fuzzy neck. She saw his ears flick in curiosity, but other than that he gave no sign of being touched. We'll work on that won't we?
Ripley nodded and headed back up the path toward the barn. Brooks and Justin were preparing the neck set of horses. The next was sure to be filled with drama.
However, it was the yearlings that were the topic of the day. Ripley had finally settled on a group that she approved of. Limited Edition had been sold and Flashpoint and Alucard had joined the team. Maggie would ride the now infamously cold Alucard for Witch Creek. Reese would ride one of three yearling fillies, the one she considered most beautiful. Supernatural. And it would be Supernatural against Alucard today. A simple gallop, but a gallop for the future.
Do you think Siri will be able to keep up with Alucard? Reese looked up from grooming her white-gray filly and glared at Maggie. She'll more than be able to handle him. Maggie hissed playfully in Reese's direction. The lioness speaks. You're afraid of what Alu can do. Ripley didn't just buy him because Finale Slew was his proud mama. Reese rolled her eyes. Maggie loved to rub this in every time she saw Reese. Reese's filly had been more of a charity case. Ripley just couldn't let a filly sit by the wayside, undeveloped. Rather she took them in and then hoped to find good homes for them. Usually she found great ones. But Siri had stayed. Reese hadn't even been a factor in the final decision to keep Siri. Everyone loved her.
At least Siri is well liked. You can't get anyone to even feed that cannibal you call a horse. Not even Connor or Justin will step into the ring with that thing. Siri turned her delicate head around to eye Reese. Her eyes were lit up with excitement, bright and wide as saucers. Her soft nostrils twitched eagerly and she nickered. Siri had a beautiful nature to her. She was well-mannered on the ground and nearly as pleasant in the saddle... As long as she wasn't on the track. Reese patted the filly's lithe shoulder. Siri faced forward, ears pricked as Ripley stepped into the barn, leading Indian Darling.
Jabberwock called romantically to the filly from just to the left of Alucard. Reese and Maggie both admired the leggy bay filly. If there was any horse Ripley had been smart to wait on it was this one. Her plain brown head twisted from side to side analyzing her surroundings. Her nostrils were flared and her neck was pulled taut. She was coming back to the racing barn after months of living in the broodmare barn. It was fitting. Ripley led the wild looking bay into the stall next to the racing office. Where she belonged. Darla poked her head out of the stall, eyes as bright as jewels. Ripley dusted her hands off, barely hiding the grin that was spreading across her face.
She looks great Ripley. I swear she's shot up in height. In fact I know she has. It was bright of you to keep her out so long. Ripley grinned and nodded. The auburn haired woman had to admit she was happy to see the daughter of Native Flame back where she was supposed to be. Preparing for her races. She pushed thoughts of hope to the back of her head and then turned her attention to Alucard and Supernatural.
Maggie ran a patient hand across her blonde hair. She had to deal with Ripley's scrutiny. Ripley had been particularly careful in searching out the next group of yearlings. And Alucard was one that she had extremely high hopes for. Maggie had no intentions of losing this particular mount. She stepped back and narrowed her sharp blue eyes on the son of Scrippture's Sapphire. The bay colt was quite large for a yearling, large and lanky. His dark bay frame seemed to tower over the women and the silver-white filly facing him. It had to do with how he held himself. His head was held high on his even neck, shoulders taunt, his hooves were nearly placed square. He looked very correct and very cold. Maggie found him endearing. Everyone else wanted to see what he could do on the race track before making a final judgement.
Maggie patted the colt's stiff neck, watching Alu's face. He barely acknowledged her presence, simply twitched the muscle beneath her hand and gazed straight ahead. He was one tough son of a gun. Maggie followed his intense gaze, would have stated that he was sending a direct challenge to Ripley, but couldn't be sure if he even saw her. Ripley cocked her head to the side, analyzed him, returning the coldness she saw. However, when she spoke there was warmth. He's an interesting character. Definitely not someone who will welcome the media, but maybe that'd be a welcome change around here.
Supernatural nosed Ripley's back pockets gently, ears pricked and head tilted. She clearly had the scent of treats lodged in her nose. Reese could only smile and shrug when Ripley turned with an eyebrow raised. The head trainer's green eyes glittered with welcome though and she eagerly stroked both sides of Siri's face. The white-gray filly relaxed as Alucard, standing taunt next to Maggie became even tighter in muscle. Maggie settled a soft hand on his neck, feeling some of the tension wane. Jealousy could happen no matter who you were or how strong you pretended to be.
Ripley moved to run her hands down both horses' legs, searching for warm spots, bumps or touchy spots. Both horses had ice cold legs that danced eagerly for activity. Over the last two months the horses had been being ridden around Witch Creek on the trails. Supernatural and Alucard particularly had been hard to handle on the woodsy and meadow paths. It was time to get them to the track. It was hard to identify anything against beginning the gallops. Both horses came from sturdy, stamina filled lines. It was time to get moving. Ripley stood up and walked to the barn entrance. Well this is it ladies and gents. We're heading out.
Reese and Maggie let out a respective hoot and clap, quickly slapping their gear on. The colt and filly didn't even flinch. They were used to the women of Witch Creek. Supernatural tossed her head in excitement. She even liked to think she was one of them. The women lead the horses outside, everyone shrinking away from the whipping winter wind. Ripley when are you going to invest in an inside track? Maggie shouted impatiently. Ripley, tucked into her thick winter boots, merely shrugged. After the Breeders Cup, we'll get the staff together and think about it.
Maggie and Reese exchanged glances. The usual money defensive Ripley would have laughed. But like Ripley's new philosophy that more may not be so bad, her other philosophy about not spending money was changing too. Perhaps more slowly, but it was there. Maggie cooed to Alucard as he danced away from her to the end of his lead. She stepped up, stroking a hand above his eye. The colt stared right through her, eyes distant and empty. Maggie sighed. She so wanted to get through to him, but it just wouldn't happen in these early days.
Reese had a far more friendly mount to deal with. The black haired woman swiftly mounted her princess white filly and grinned when Siri instantly took up the prance of a carriage horse. She swept down the path, her lean strides covering the ground at a quick rate. The silver-white filly knew exactly what her job was to be. Reese patted the filly's neck, turning back around to wait for Ripley and Maggie.
Maggie swung aboard Alucard, admiring his impressive youthful height. She could feel the power that shimmered beneath him. His emptiness did not carry from the ground to the saddle. He straightened up to his full height, practically rolling his shoulders as if warming himself up. Maggie could feel him slowly come to life, awakening from a long slumber. He bowed his head, touching his nose to his chest and finally met Ripley with a heated eye.
Ripley watched as the horse walked away to meet up with his more peppy stablemate. She suppressed her chills. He didn't have a mean bone in his body, but somehow he was still quietly intimidating. She watched him walk cockily away and could have sworn he'd just passed the ball into her court with a shrug. Finale Slew had thrown a tough cookie her way. The trainer tucked her hands into her pockets and followed the princess and the dark knight toward the track.
Supernatural snorted eagerly when Alucard joined her in her quick walk. She was a lot swifter than the big colt, more eager to please. Reese swayed in the saddle, appreciating the way the filly moved. She was smooth as glass in all of her quickness and extremely light on the mouth. Reese had to only touch with her fingers and it would have the filly shifting rapidly to the side of the path. Her parents had been willing horses as well and this filly was no different.
Maggie kept quiet on Alucard. Silence fit the colt like a fine suit. She didn't usually get along with quiet horses, but she would make an exception in this case. Who knew what he would become out on the race track. She and Ripley certainly didn't know, but they had high hopes.
The loamy sand track spilled out before the pair of yearlings. Their fine frames became taunt with excitement. Even Alucard finally woke up out of his haughty stupor. His legs pumped eagerly off of the ground, crow hopping and showing some bit of emotion for once. Maggie laughed and let him go at it, happy to see some racehorse blood appear in the son of Scripture's Sapphire and Finale Slew.
Reese too was having some fun with Supernatural. The Dylan Himself filly charged up the track, legs cruising over the sand. Reese stood tall in the irons, dark eyes bright and focused ahead. She didn't mean to let the filly move so soon, but she wanted to feel the wind and so it seemed, did Siri. Reese called to the filly as they drew close to the first turn, loosening the reins and motioning for the filly to settle down. Siri was obviously new and her legs zigzagged all over the track. Every time Reese managed to get the filly straightened out, something caught her attention and she kicked back into rabbit mode.
Alucard now stood prim and proper at the gap. His head was turned to focus on Supernatural, ears glued to her. Maggie merely sat. He was a difficult colt to know and a strange one. He should be like Siri, running like a coon hound after a rabbit. He simply was not. He was a pro already, taking everything in and analyzing it. Ripley was quiet nearby, noting Alu's presence, but keeping a keen eye on Siri.
The white filly can move, Ripley thought. Siri was indeed cruising over the track. Not straight, but certainly moving. Her lean frame covered the ground impressively, she sparkled like a gem. Reese was impressed as well. Ripley could tell by the way the woman leaned into the horse. It was an imperceptible move, but Ripley understood when Reese was interested in a mount and when she wasn't.
Maggie too was watching the filly, just as interested in the development of that particular horse, until Alucard decided it was time to run and gun. She barely had time to snatch at the reins before the dark bay colt bolted up the track. He'd practically gone from 0-40 in less then two seconds. His legs whipped over the course, large strides covering the ground in very little time. Maggie almost forgot she was dealing with a youngster so impressive was his speed. Alu marched over the dirt, knees lifting in an attempt to become accustomed to the dirt track.
As green as Siri was, Alu was not. His large frame moved straight and true, even in the turn. The colt did not switch leads as most older horses did, but that was to be expected. Some greenness was allowable. Maggie kept the reins light in her hands, keeping the colt moving nicely beneath her. He wasn't running off like most two year olds. He just was something else. Something impressive.
Ripley watched as Alucard rolled into the backstretch. Siri was making her way up the homestretch, practically powering along like a freight train. Reese was barely moving on her and Ripley liked that immensely. She wasn't being pushed at all and neither was Alucard. Ripley blew the whistle and Reese pulled the white filly up. Supernatural slowed down after a few tugs and being dragged out wide by Reese.
Ripley narrowed her eyes on Siri. She was definitely green, but had the talent to be extremely nice as a two year old. It was only the first gallop. Dismissing the filly, Ripley turned back to Alucard. He carried himself very correctly, his neck and head slightly above his shoulders, but not cranked up like Jabberwock. He looked like a powerhouse, chest appearing nice and wide as he spun around the far turn. Maggie looked as if she had a ton of horse beneath her. Ripley counted mentally the time and came up fourteen seconds for the furlong. Well in control and definitely not too hard on his bones.
Maggie's face spread wide with a toothy grin. Oh he was definitely impressive. She felt as if she had a pro grade one runner beneath her. She called to him, laughing when his ears became twin towers above his head. His stride lengthened and he gave her a nice taste of what was to come. Siri was coming back toward Ripley, toward them as Alucard cruised up the homestretch.
The ghostly white filly was peppy as ever, tossing her head, straining to get a real good look of Alucard as he just cruised under the wire. Reese narrowed her gaze on him. He wasn't even zigzagging. She patted her filly's neck as the jogged up the track. So he was impressive, but Siri had gotten faster with every single furlong. She just didn't look it. Ripley nodded to her when they arrived.
She looked smooth as glass. Definitely was powering coming into the stretch. But she's green as the grass in summer. We'll try blinkers and see what that does next time. Impressive on the turns though and she got the lead coming down the homestretch. Good Reese. Reese half-smirked. She really needed to give Ripley more credit. The woman saw more than Reese had expected. Reese leaned close and kissed Siri's pretty neck. Good girl. You just got the boss' approval.
Reese and Ripley both turned their attention to Alucard and Maggie. The bay was coming back pumped up as can be. He tossed his head and even whinnied to Siri. Like a completely different horse, Reese snorted. Ripley laughed. Completely. Maggie patted the colt's muscled neck, relishing in the fact that he could come alive somewhere, be himself somewhere. Just like herself, leaving it all on the track. As soon as they reached Reese and Ripley however, the colt shut himself down. He was still breathing a little hard, but his eyes once again turned distance and his movements became those of a quiet buck.
What do you think? Maggie asked anxiously. Ripley twisted her lips into a small frown, not giving her friend anything. He was impressive. Strong. Got stronger the further he went, just like Siri. He looks happy running where he doesn't here. He'll be a horse that'll need training every day. Like Siri he needs to be trained on lead changes mid-run, but we all know that comes with experience. He sure does look happy out there. Maggie nodded with a smile. Ripley was right. Alucard felt as if he'd been born to run. She leaned down, not caring if the colt hated affection, and kissed his warm fuzzy neck. She saw his ears flick in curiosity, but other than that he gave no sign of being touched. We'll work on that won't we?
Ripley nodded and headed back up the path toward the barn. Brooks and Justin were preparing the neck set of horses. The next was sure to be filled with drama.
turning back time
Courtesy of Event of the Year Photos.
Ripley grinned devilishly at the sight of the two fillies standing in the center aisle. Both of them were quite gorgeous, bay rumps clocked in the yellow-black-red striped training blanket. These were her big guns for the turf next year on the track. Big things were expected of them, both of them. Most of it having to do with whom their dams were.
Royal Assault and The Devil's Touch had not run in the same year, but both of them had struck more than a few chords out on the track during their day. The Devil had taken the Breeders Cup Juvenile Fillies as the grand finale to her career year as a two year old. Royal Assault had not won as many impressive races, but her turn of foot and strong mind had blown people's minds. A small fan club for both of the mares still showed up at Witch Creek, though most people were for El Sol del Mar.
Now it was like turning back time and having two of Ripley's most inspiring proteges' foals staring back at her was a miracle. Prima Donna, daughter of Gorgeous George and Royal Assault, looked as powerful as her dam had. Strong, very correct in the hind end, with a sharp, expressive eye. She was lean as a greyhound and a potential monster. Her father was expressed in the shape of her face and in the light of that devious competitive eye. Prima Donna was all athlete, pure and simple. Turning her attention from the first to the second horse, Ripley was literally swept back in time.
The horse staring back at her with kind eyes could have been her mother. Muscles rippled over muscles. Powerful shoulders looked nearly too big for the small bull-dog frame. A keen, devilish eye with a tendency toward kindness, depending who you were, lit Ripley's world on fire. A sturdy neck, belonging to a male colt, and thick black locks at the crown and rear. The Devil's Hourglass was a mirror image of her grade three champion mother. A twin, a reproduction with all the possibilities of being as good or better, but this time on the turf.
Brooks patted her shoulder as he walked in. You just like looking at them don't you. Ripley grinned and stuck a tongue out. Well certainly. They're our monsters for Year Thirteen in the two year old ranks. I could look at them all day long. Justin grinned. He had to agree with Ripley on this. They were the best looking yearlings. Both of them were filled out and impressive looking. They had the look of eagles. He secretly hoped Prima would be just as good as what Dame had become. He stroked the filly's elegantly shaped head. She had an Arab in her some where. The tea cup muzzle, the razor sharp ears. She looked brilliant, challenging and brilliant. Beautiful Prima. I can't wait to get you moving out there.
Brooks nudged Ripley jokingly, Dame's going to get jealous if he keeps serenading her. Ripley laughed and Justin turned red beneath his cocoa skin. Dame's always my number one. Brooks laughed and nodded toward The Devil's Hourglass. She has the potential to be my number two... After Ripley of course. Ripley flushed red as she stroked Hourglass' thick diamond. The filly's happy eyes glittered. Their bond had not broken despite all that they had gone through. She rubbed inside the rounded bay's sculpted ears, smiling when the filly leaned into her. She's so lovely. Number three after Sunny and The Devil. Ripley gave the filly a nice pat and leg rub down before moving to Prima Donna.
The filly lifted her head high, eyes flashing with pure attitude. Her gaze was arrogant and queenly as she took in Ripley. Out of all of the yearlings, this one was the most challenging to authority. Ripley just locked eyes with Prima until the filly finally bowed out. Ripley shook her head before sneaking a pat in. The Royal Assault filly was not her mother or her father and she didn't behave like the other horses at Witch Creek. She truly was out to buck the law, fight head and head against it until she came out on top. That kind of fighting spirit mixed with arrogance was dangerous. It would be dangerous in a race and hard to deal with in basic training. Ripley swiftly checked the filly's legs out, noting that they were quiet. She was hoping that Gorgeous George would help balance out the less sturdy Royal Assault's lines. Prima was more delicately built in the leg and would need to be watched.
The fillies were tacked up and ready to go by the time Ripley was ready to go with a new set of toe and hand warmers. Brooks and Justin mounted up swiftly just outside of the barn. These fillies wouldn't be out on the turf track until spring. Dirt would not hurt either of them. Ripley walked calmly beside them, making sure to keep close to Hourglass' head. Hourglass' eyes were flickering with that inner hateful flame. She loathed Brookson Wells with all her heart, but tolerated him because of Ripley. Their first ride had been absolutely dangerous to the core, resulting in Hourglass playing chicken with the same dirt rail they were heading for now. Brooks was quiet as can be, letting Ripley control the reins and the filly. If this was what Hourglass needed in order to keep her cool, this is what they would do until she calmed down.
Justin walked Prima just behind the trio, keeping the athletic filly in check. She would not move faster than a flat walk, but she kept her head tall and analyzing everything. Her arrogant elegance dominated her whole frame. Justin could feel the power shimmer through her. It had to be her noble look, but he was positive from past gallops that she was swift and strong, not just powerful. Prima snorted, bowing her neck like a stud colt. Justin patted her neck, happy that he did not have to be so quiet with her. He didn't trust her like he did Dame, but he could learn how to.
The bay fillies marched toward the track, their bodies keying up with every stride closer. Hourglass began to toss her head, ears pinning back into her thick black mane. Her hooves stutter stepped on the path and she lifted into a bit of a half-rear. Her eyes blazed with rage and hate, but she was kept in place by the hand that had raised her. Ripley met the loathing gaze with a stern look from green eyes. Hourglass was a sweet filly in the barn, but get her under tack and she made a complete 360 turn around. Brooks' face was pale above his turtleneck wind jacket, but he forced himself to relax when Ripley met his eye.
Justin could feel Prima tense up when Hourglass turned into her demonic self. The Royal Assault filly picked up on everything her stockier stable mate did, every mood. Unfortunately, there was nothing Justin could really do about it. The lean bay filly squealed and planted her hooves in the dirt path, gaze locked on Hourglass. Ripley glanced back, shaking her head. These ladies are going to be the death of me. She wriggled the reins and managed to get Hourglass moving again toward the track.
She tossed her black forelock away from her thick star and snorted irritably, but she was calmer now. Ripley turned the filly loose on the track, backing off when Hourglass lifted into a half-rear, striking with her forelegs. Brooks leaned forward, nearly level with the filly's thick neck. Hourglass remained upright for a few steps and then suddenly plunged down. Sheer grit allowed Brooks to move with her. The daughter of The Devil launched into a bolting gallop, thick legs pumping beneath her rounded body. Wind whipped through the helmet wrapped around Brooks' head. The filly could move. He didn't bother with pulling her in and down. She was the true yearling, all speed and no stop. He couldn't move for fear of angering her into faster and faster speeds.
Justin aboard Prima and Ripley gawked as Hourglass raced into the first turn. Her bullet body hurtled over the track, kicking up dirt en masse. The filly looked great on the dirt track which made Ripley wonder how much better the filly would be on the turf track. The trainer gestured for Justin to take off with Prima Donna. The young jock nodded his head and nudged the lean, tall filly forward.
She stomped disagreeably and nearly planted her hooves, but a clap of the hands from Ripley had her bolting into a gallop. Justin braced himself and grinned when Prima leaped into a massive gallop stride. She really scooted forward along the outside rail, knees climbing over the dirt surface. The Gorgeous George filly tucked her savagely built head down and geared down, fighting for a nice stride. Justin leaned forward, letting the filly fight with the dirt demons. They all knew she would be better on the turf track. Her breeding screamed turf, but it was necessary for her to run forwardly on the dirt track for winter training at least.
Brooks was barely breathing as Hourglass whipped up the backstretch. Her legs blurred faster and faster beneath her, solid black fading into tornado. She could really run this filly. It was expected of her, but she was uncontrollable for the moment. She could run, but would be dangerous if she didn't settle. The blonde man took the reins in his hands, slightly pulling back and found a daring resistance. She tossed her sharp head, eyes ablaze with fire, and pulled against him as ferociously as she could. But her speed had slowed.
They cranked it into the far turn, Hourglass pounding on the track that she would only train on. The star-marked filly bolted into the turn, cutting it close enough to bang Brooks' stirrup against the rail. Quite surprisingly, she caught the lead change where neither Alucard and Siri had. It pushed her into another gear and soon she was flying into the homestretch. Her black mane pounded his face as she ran, daring him to fight back. Brooks merely sat still. He knew she wanted him to fight back, but he wouldn't give it to her.
Justin could hear the flying hoof beats of Hourglass all the way across the track. He recognized this fact and knew that Ripley did not want them to go this fast, this early. With Hourglass that fact was obviously pointless. But Prima was listening like a champ. Her hooves were unnervingly silent as she moved off the turn and into the backstretch. Her frame was larger, leaner and heavier than Hourglass and yet she was dead silent. Her ears and nostrils twitched, she carried her head high as she canter-galloped over the loamy dirt-sand track.
She was a prideful minx this one. Very crafty and a little heavy on the hand. Her teeth were wrapped around the bit in her mouth and she tested him every now and then for control. Justin shut her curious streak down easily and smiled when she began to spread herself out over the track in protest. She wasn't going to completely go against the law... Well not directly anyway. Prima Donna rumbled over the track, head angled to the outside to watch as Flashpoint and Indian Darling were lead to the track. A quick flick of the reins and the bright bay turned back to the work.
Her eyes darkened and she began to leap across the track, speeding up impressively. Prima angled out a few paths from the rail, her body carried by centrifugal force. She was a strong horse and fierce. Justin barely had to ask her for more speed and she was there. She completely blew the turn, missing her lead change, but it didn't matter to Justin. Once she straightened out she merely got stronger, more expressive and faster. Her ears stood on end as if she were being electrified and she snorted aggressively as she covered the more ground.
Ripley, Reese and now Maggie leaned against the rail as Prima finished her first and final lap and Hourglass bounded into her second homestretch run, hopefully her last. Neither filly was under urging, but both of them were getting stronger. Reese let out a low whistle, Now those are some serious runners.
Ripley shrugged. Prima blew that turn pretty badly and Hourglass is way too strong at the moment. Reese and Maggie rolled their eyes as Ripley continued. But yes, once we get them straightened out they should be very serious runners. For once my turf division may actually be stronger than my dirt. Her green eyes darkened as Hourglass crossed the finish line for the second time. The bay bullet train muscled back into the turn, hooking up with Prima, but finally slowed as that filly did not go with her. She might have to make a rider change. Ripley sighed. That would be an interesting conversation with her boyfriend.
The fillies turned back and trotted eagerly over the track. They looked about as athletic and strong as they could in yearling bodies. Their eyes glittered. One with excitement and one with complete dislike. But both looked the part of their mothers and hopefully they would even make a run to surpass them.
Royal Assault and The Devil's Touch had not run in the same year, but both of them had struck more than a few chords out on the track during their day. The Devil had taken the Breeders Cup Juvenile Fillies as the grand finale to her career year as a two year old. Royal Assault had not won as many impressive races, but her turn of foot and strong mind had blown people's minds. A small fan club for both of the mares still showed up at Witch Creek, though most people were for El Sol del Mar.
Now it was like turning back time and having two of Ripley's most inspiring proteges' foals staring back at her was a miracle. Prima Donna, daughter of Gorgeous George and Royal Assault, looked as powerful as her dam had. Strong, very correct in the hind end, with a sharp, expressive eye. She was lean as a greyhound and a potential monster. Her father was expressed in the shape of her face and in the light of that devious competitive eye. Prima Donna was all athlete, pure and simple. Turning her attention from the first to the second horse, Ripley was literally swept back in time.
The horse staring back at her with kind eyes could have been her mother. Muscles rippled over muscles. Powerful shoulders looked nearly too big for the small bull-dog frame. A keen, devilish eye with a tendency toward kindness, depending who you were, lit Ripley's world on fire. A sturdy neck, belonging to a male colt, and thick black locks at the crown and rear. The Devil's Hourglass was a mirror image of her grade three champion mother. A twin, a reproduction with all the possibilities of being as good or better, but this time on the turf.
Brooks patted her shoulder as he walked in. You just like looking at them don't you. Ripley grinned and stuck a tongue out. Well certainly. They're our monsters for Year Thirteen in the two year old ranks. I could look at them all day long. Justin grinned. He had to agree with Ripley on this. They were the best looking yearlings. Both of them were filled out and impressive looking. They had the look of eagles. He secretly hoped Prima would be just as good as what Dame had become. He stroked the filly's elegantly shaped head. She had an Arab in her some where. The tea cup muzzle, the razor sharp ears. She looked brilliant, challenging and brilliant. Beautiful Prima. I can't wait to get you moving out there.
Brooks nudged Ripley jokingly, Dame's going to get jealous if he keeps serenading her. Ripley laughed and Justin turned red beneath his cocoa skin. Dame's always my number one. Brooks laughed and nodded toward The Devil's Hourglass. She has the potential to be my number two... After Ripley of course. Ripley flushed red as she stroked Hourglass' thick diamond. The filly's happy eyes glittered. Their bond had not broken despite all that they had gone through. She rubbed inside the rounded bay's sculpted ears, smiling when the filly leaned into her. She's so lovely. Number three after Sunny and The Devil. Ripley gave the filly a nice pat and leg rub down before moving to Prima Donna.
The filly lifted her head high, eyes flashing with pure attitude. Her gaze was arrogant and queenly as she took in Ripley. Out of all of the yearlings, this one was the most challenging to authority. Ripley just locked eyes with Prima until the filly finally bowed out. Ripley shook her head before sneaking a pat in. The Royal Assault filly was not her mother or her father and she didn't behave like the other horses at Witch Creek. She truly was out to buck the law, fight head and head against it until she came out on top. That kind of fighting spirit mixed with arrogance was dangerous. It would be dangerous in a race and hard to deal with in basic training. Ripley swiftly checked the filly's legs out, noting that they were quiet. She was hoping that Gorgeous George would help balance out the less sturdy Royal Assault's lines. Prima was more delicately built in the leg and would need to be watched.
The fillies were tacked up and ready to go by the time Ripley was ready to go with a new set of toe and hand warmers. Brooks and Justin mounted up swiftly just outside of the barn. These fillies wouldn't be out on the turf track until spring. Dirt would not hurt either of them. Ripley walked calmly beside them, making sure to keep close to Hourglass' head. Hourglass' eyes were flickering with that inner hateful flame. She loathed Brookson Wells with all her heart, but tolerated him because of Ripley. Their first ride had been absolutely dangerous to the core, resulting in Hourglass playing chicken with the same dirt rail they were heading for now. Brooks was quiet as can be, letting Ripley control the reins and the filly. If this was what Hourglass needed in order to keep her cool, this is what they would do until she calmed down.
Justin walked Prima just behind the trio, keeping the athletic filly in check. She would not move faster than a flat walk, but she kept her head tall and analyzing everything. Her arrogant elegance dominated her whole frame. Justin could feel the power shimmer through her. It had to be her noble look, but he was positive from past gallops that she was swift and strong, not just powerful. Prima snorted, bowing her neck like a stud colt. Justin patted her neck, happy that he did not have to be so quiet with her. He didn't trust her like he did Dame, but he could learn how to.
The bay fillies marched toward the track, their bodies keying up with every stride closer. Hourglass began to toss her head, ears pinning back into her thick black mane. Her hooves stutter stepped on the path and she lifted into a bit of a half-rear. Her eyes blazed with rage and hate, but she was kept in place by the hand that had raised her. Ripley met the loathing gaze with a stern look from green eyes. Hourglass was a sweet filly in the barn, but get her under tack and she made a complete 360 turn around. Brooks' face was pale above his turtleneck wind jacket, but he forced himself to relax when Ripley met his eye.
Justin could feel Prima tense up when Hourglass turned into her demonic self. The Royal Assault filly picked up on everything her stockier stable mate did, every mood. Unfortunately, there was nothing Justin could really do about it. The lean bay filly squealed and planted her hooves in the dirt path, gaze locked on Hourglass. Ripley glanced back, shaking her head. These ladies are going to be the death of me. She wriggled the reins and managed to get Hourglass moving again toward the track.
She tossed her black forelock away from her thick star and snorted irritably, but she was calmer now. Ripley turned the filly loose on the track, backing off when Hourglass lifted into a half-rear, striking with her forelegs. Brooks leaned forward, nearly level with the filly's thick neck. Hourglass remained upright for a few steps and then suddenly plunged down. Sheer grit allowed Brooks to move with her. The daughter of The Devil launched into a bolting gallop, thick legs pumping beneath her rounded body. Wind whipped through the helmet wrapped around Brooks' head. The filly could move. He didn't bother with pulling her in and down. She was the true yearling, all speed and no stop. He couldn't move for fear of angering her into faster and faster speeds.
Justin aboard Prima and Ripley gawked as Hourglass raced into the first turn. Her bullet body hurtled over the track, kicking up dirt en masse. The filly looked great on the dirt track which made Ripley wonder how much better the filly would be on the turf track. The trainer gestured for Justin to take off with Prima Donna. The young jock nodded his head and nudged the lean, tall filly forward.
She stomped disagreeably and nearly planted her hooves, but a clap of the hands from Ripley had her bolting into a gallop. Justin braced himself and grinned when Prima leaped into a massive gallop stride. She really scooted forward along the outside rail, knees climbing over the dirt surface. The Gorgeous George filly tucked her savagely built head down and geared down, fighting for a nice stride. Justin leaned forward, letting the filly fight with the dirt demons. They all knew she would be better on the turf track. Her breeding screamed turf, but it was necessary for her to run forwardly on the dirt track for winter training at least.
Brooks was barely breathing as Hourglass whipped up the backstretch. Her legs blurred faster and faster beneath her, solid black fading into tornado. She could really run this filly. It was expected of her, but she was uncontrollable for the moment. She could run, but would be dangerous if she didn't settle. The blonde man took the reins in his hands, slightly pulling back and found a daring resistance. She tossed her sharp head, eyes ablaze with fire, and pulled against him as ferociously as she could. But her speed had slowed.
They cranked it into the far turn, Hourglass pounding on the track that she would only train on. The star-marked filly bolted into the turn, cutting it close enough to bang Brooks' stirrup against the rail. Quite surprisingly, she caught the lead change where neither Alucard and Siri had. It pushed her into another gear and soon she was flying into the homestretch. Her black mane pounded his face as she ran, daring him to fight back. Brooks merely sat still. He knew she wanted him to fight back, but he wouldn't give it to her.
Justin could hear the flying hoof beats of Hourglass all the way across the track. He recognized this fact and knew that Ripley did not want them to go this fast, this early. With Hourglass that fact was obviously pointless. But Prima was listening like a champ. Her hooves were unnervingly silent as she moved off the turn and into the backstretch. Her frame was larger, leaner and heavier than Hourglass and yet she was dead silent. Her ears and nostrils twitched, she carried her head high as she canter-galloped over the loamy dirt-sand track.
She was a prideful minx this one. Very crafty and a little heavy on the hand. Her teeth were wrapped around the bit in her mouth and she tested him every now and then for control. Justin shut her curious streak down easily and smiled when she began to spread herself out over the track in protest. She wasn't going to completely go against the law... Well not directly anyway. Prima Donna rumbled over the track, head angled to the outside to watch as Flashpoint and Indian Darling were lead to the track. A quick flick of the reins and the bright bay turned back to the work.
Her eyes darkened and she began to leap across the track, speeding up impressively. Prima angled out a few paths from the rail, her body carried by centrifugal force. She was a strong horse and fierce. Justin barely had to ask her for more speed and she was there. She completely blew the turn, missing her lead change, but it didn't matter to Justin. Once she straightened out she merely got stronger, more expressive and faster. Her ears stood on end as if she were being electrified and she snorted aggressively as she covered the more ground.
Ripley, Reese and now Maggie leaned against the rail as Prima finished her first and final lap and Hourglass bounded into her second homestretch run, hopefully her last. Neither filly was under urging, but both of them were getting stronger. Reese let out a low whistle, Now those are some serious runners.
Ripley shrugged. Prima blew that turn pretty badly and Hourglass is way too strong at the moment. Reese and Maggie rolled their eyes as Ripley continued. But yes, once we get them straightened out they should be very serious runners. For once my turf division may actually be stronger than my dirt. Her green eyes darkened as Hourglass crossed the finish line for the second time. The bay bullet train muscled back into the turn, hooking up with Prima, but finally slowed as that filly did not go with her. She might have to make a rider change. Ripley sighed. That would be an interesting conversation with her boyfriend.
The fillies turned back and trotted eagerly over the track. They looked about as athletic and strong as they could in yearling bodies. Their eyes glittered. One with excitement and one with complete dislike. But both looked the part of their mothers and hopefully they would even make a run to surpass them.
return to the wild side
Courtesy of Event of the Year Photos.
Ripley's mind clicked through various scenarios as fast as possible. Her sharp green eyes shifted from the returning fillies to the antsy horses being led by Connor. Flashpoint and Indian Darling were up next in the set. The pair was nearly level in height at this point. Darla had put on plenty of weight during her time off and some height. She looked fantastic, though her muscles were a little atrophied. She would need some training time before Ripley even dared to enter in a race. Though the Noella Derby at The Wire sounded more and more to her liking. If she remembered correctly, Darla would not need that much training before she was in tip-top shape.
She mused over Flashpoint. The dark bay, near black colt, looked absolutely fantastic. He stared cockily at the fillies coming off the track, head held high and not even intimidated by Prima Donna. Prima was the toughest yearling to get along with and Moose had stated he was not a fan of hers the moment he had arrived at Witch Creek. He pinned his ears when she stalked by and she responded with a furious cow kick. Justin swiftly guided the filly away and back to the barn. Her lioness nature was no good when she found a lion prepared to fight. Ripley called to Brooks before he could follow. Hourglass pranced beneath him, another lioness. Brooks' face was pure white and Ripley wondered what it was about Hourglass that had him scared silly. She placed a hand on his arm, taking the reins from him. Easy Brooks. Why don't you hop down and Connor can take her from here?
She shared an uneasy look with Connor when Brooks took a second to hop down, staring at her as if she were a ghost. He blinked his blue jean eyes and slowly slid his feet out of the stirrups. Connor took the reins from Ripley and nodded to her before leading Hourglass after her fiery stablemate. Brooks was quiet as a church mouse while Ripley took the time to search Moose and Darla's legs for heat. She spent a little extra time on Darla's legs, careful with her. Tendon issues had ended her early two year old season, but they were stone cold and Ripley was satisfied.
She turned back to Brooks, running a hand down Moose's face when he prodded her out of jealousy. I can't ride them both Brooks. How about taking Moose off my hands? You know what real talent looks like. Just feel him out for me will you? Brooks shook his head, not out of disagreement, but as if he were coming out of the clouds. Ripley's eyes crossed back to Hourglass' disappearing rump. What kind of horse was she to put the fear of God into one of the toughest jocks on the circuit? Brooks' eyes brightened up when Moose automatically stepped to him. The son of Flash Limits may be arrogant, but he was one of the biggest sweethearts in the barn.
Brooks rubbed the colt's striped face and nearly sighed when Moose rested his head on the man's shoulder. Ripley quickly reached up, tapping the camera on her helmet to snap a picture. It was nice to have these kind of reminders of why they dealt with the thoroughbreds every day. She looked back to her mount, felt a shiver race up her back. Indian Darling was finally growing, finally stepping into the shoes of her classic sire, Native Flame.
Her dappled out rump shimmered in the weak winter light. Her eyes glittered with a mixture of wildness and happiness as she gazed out over the track. Indian Darling had been Ripley's most exciting two year old going into Year Twelve. While the media had focused on Mastermind's raw visual talent, Ripley and Darla had fought to forge a relationship in one of the toughest generation of two year olds yet. The bay had needed time to mature and with every race she had improved in some way. The black blinker hood fit her head like a glove where it used to dwarf her. She had grown and Ripley was wondering if her talent had done the same.
The bay filly dipped her plain Jane nose into Ripley's hand and nickered softly. Ripley's green eyes softened. She would bring the filly back to what she was on her way to becoming before the injury. Ripley patted the filly's shoulder and swung up into the light racing saddle. Darla's head flew up, dark eyes brightening and tail waving over her rump. She stepped out before Ripley could signal and was on the track jogging out of old habit. Only this time she wouldn't be just jogging and cantering. She would be galloping and preparing for a racing career that had been put on hold.
Ripley glanced back to see Brooks aboard Flashpoint. The Flash At Dawn son, bowed his neck, prancing eagerly beneath his male rider. Ripley's eyes narrowed. Somehow this puzzle piece fit where the Hourglass/Brooks' piece did not. Ripley nodded. It was a good fit. She could see that Brooks was just as pleased. His eyes were bright and his color was back in his cheeks. The man asked the colt to move into a jog over the sandy-dirt track. He bowed his neck and stepped out smoothly beneath Brooks. The colt propelled himself over the track, catching up to Indian Darling quite easily.
Ripley was happy to go at the same pace as the yearling colt. He was the more level-headed of the group and Indian Darling would behave herself over the track. Ripley patted the filly's tensed up neck, grinning when she whinnied her arrival to the black birds dive bombing the first turn. The filly had liked her vacation, had been forced to like it, but she always belonged here. Ripley settled back into the filly's swinging stride, welcoming back her friend.
Brooks knew that Moose would find Darla a bit of a challenge even at a gallop. Darla's gallop was like a slow sprint. Moose had not even been tested at that point just yet. The striped face colt flicked his tail over his rump. He was a strong looking colt and he felt strong as well. Muscle rippled beneath his near black hide. He was the spitting image of the younger Fiery Touch if not in color, but in build. Brooks could feel the same intensity blistering beneath his hide as well. Pedigree had dictated the last two colts to join the yearling band and he, like Alucard, was going to have to prove that Ripley's instincts had been correct.
Brooks urged the colt into position on the rail, glad to see that now, even in a canter, he was not frightened of being pinned there by Indian Darling. If there was any mount not interested in pinning a horse down it was Indian Darling. She was a wild son of a gun, but unlike Fie she was interested in intimidating her foes. Brooks looked over at the filly, smirking. She looked brilliant for a filly coming off the DL.
Ripley leaned forward, hands light on the reins. Darla was strong as can be under saddle, had been since she'd been back under tack. Her nostrils twitched with every snort she released into the chilly winter air. Her black mane and tail flew into the air, surrounding her like black fog. She was absolutely rolling over the course, hooves as silent as a deer. Ripley grinned behind her scarf. This was a filly who had matured more over the season than any of the more experienced two year olds. She was mentally tougher and less fidgety. Her eyes were quiet where they used to be wild.
Brooks was nearly just as impressed with Flashpoint. Here was a colt meant to be exactly like his sister in most every department and he completely wasn't. He was focused right now, ready to work right now. In more ways than one, Brooks was clearly reminded of Frozen Motion. He moved as if he'd been galloping his whole life, legs tight beneath him, head level with his shoulders. There was intensity, but it was dangerous because of the focus that bolstered him. Brooks felt as if he were on a rattler waiting to strike. His ear was locked on Indian Darling, watching her every stride, every twitch of her skin.
Brooks felt the colt tense when the filly shifted slightly to the outside three path on command. Ripley had barely moved her fingers and the filly had moved on cue. Ripley reached down to pat the graceful filly's neck. Good girl Darla. The filly mouthed the bit gently, rolling it over her thick pink tongue. Her eyes glimmered with satisfaction and Ripley felt as though if she could see Darla's aura it would be a beautiful happy color. Her racing soul was back where it belonged.
The yearling and two year old scooted over the dirt, well in control and moving as if they could go forever. Brooks and Ripley let the pair out at the same time, grinning when each horse moved a little more enthusiastically then planned. The pair whizzed forward over the track, legs spread apart to cover more ground. Darla pinned her ears when Moose ran up to her and even dared to poke a nose in front. Ripley cocked and eyebrow and shook the reins at her. This was a new trick of Darla's that she must have developed while out to pasture. The filly dropped into another gear, swiftly putting a half-length between herself and Flashpoint.
Moose's head soared into the air, snorting in disgust when dirt kicked back into his nostrils. The bay-black colt tossed his head, snorting again and again and losing ground to the flying filly. Brooks shook his head. He had been expecting this of Darla. She was too full of herself to cooperate the entire time. He lowered his reins as the colt picked up speed. His legs became blurs as he charged after the near sprinting Indian Darling. The wild bay filly cut the corner, nearly cutting Moose off. The slightly larger colt did nothing though. Didn't react. Didn't slow down suddenly. Rather he just skipped over her hooves and rounded up on her outside. Brooks let out a wicked chuckle as they circled up rapidly on the outside of Darla.
Ripley glanced under shoulder, relishing in the happy look in Brooks' gaze. The colt beneath him was looking tougher as he drew closer. She was impressed with him. Darla was returning and she wasn't even trying, but he didn't seem to be either. Brooks' hands were still and the colt was traveling powerfully at Darla's hip. The filly's ears were cocked back to listen to Moose. She put on a burst of speed to knock him off of her and Ripley was jerked back to reality.
She wasn't quite used to this more controlled Indian Darling. This was not the wild filly that could not manage her speed. This was a horse almost as rateable and push-button as Mastermind. Ripley twitched her fingers and the filly settled into an easy gallop, allowing Moose to join her once again on the lead. The horses cruised through the far turn and into the homestretch side by side. Their riders were fiercely impressed. These were strong performances for horses who had been expected to have more faults than the rest.
Instead the colt and filly were striding like pros over the course. The whipping winter wind did not touch them nor their riders. Each rider had a ton of horse beneath them, but neither wanted to push that button just yet. There was a little bit of time before Indian Darling needed to tune up again and a ton of time before Moose would be expected to perform at the top level. Ripley and Brooks pulled the filly and colt up going back into the first turn. They highfived and proceeded to hold hands into the backstretch. Neither Moose nor Darla had any protests about their closeness.
Brooks turned to Ripley, How about switching mounts Marsh? I know this kind of horse and you know Hourglass' type. We both can get a lot more out of them if we stick to what we're good at. Ripley nearly died with laughter, but she held herself together and shrugged. I don't see why not Brookson. Sure. We'll switch. You do well with him. Brooks squeezed her hand, a grin spreading over his face. Ripley always understood.
She looks like she'll be a queen for you come Year Thirteen. Ripley laughed, pat Darla's warm neck. The filly snorted and bowed it. We have hope now.
She mused over Flashpoint. The dark bay, near black colt, looked absolutely fantastic. He stared cockily at the fillies coming off the track, head held high and not even intimidated by Prima Donna. Prima was the toughest yearling to get along with and Moose had stated he was not a fan of hers the moment he had arrived at Witch Creek. He pinned his ears when she stalked by and she responded with a furious cow kick. Justin swiftly guided the filly away and back to the barn. Her lioness nature was no good when she found a lion prepared to fight. Ripley called to Brooks before he could follow. Hourglass pranced beneath him, another lioness. Brooks' face was pure white and Ripley wondered what it was about Hourglass that had him scared silly. She placed a hand on his arm, taking the reins from him. Easy Brooks. Why don't you hop down and Connor can take her from here?
She shared an uneasy look with Connor when Brooks took a second to hop down, staring at her as if she were a ghost. He blinked his blue jean eyes and slowly slid his feet out of the stirrups. Connor took the reins from Ripley and nodded to her before leading Hourglass after her fiery stablemate. Brooks was quiet as a church mouse while Ripley took the time to search Moose and Darla's legs for heat. She spent a little extra time on Darla's legs, careful with her. Tendon issues had ended her early two year old season, but they were stone cold and Ripley was satisfied.
She turned back to Brooks, running a hand down Moose's face when he prodded her out of jealousy. I can't ride them both Brooks. How about taking Moose off my hands? You know what real talent looks like. Just feel him out for me will you? Brooks shook his head, not out of disagreement, but as if he were coming out of the clouds. Ripley's eyes crossed back to Hourglass' disappearing rump. What kind of horse was she to put the fear of God into one of the toughest jocks on the circuit? Brooks' eyes brightened up when Moose automatically stepped to him. The son of Flash Limits may be arrogant, but he was one of the biggest sweethearts in the barn.
Brooks rubbed the colt's striped face and nearly sighed when Moose rested his head on the man's shoulder. Ripley quickly reached up, tapping the camera on her helmet to snap a picture. It was nice to have these kind of reminders of why they dealt with the thoroughbreds every day. She looked back to her mount, felt a shiver race up her back. Indian Darling was finally growing, finally stepping into the shoes of her classic sire, Native Flame.
Her dappled out rump shimmered in the weak winter light. Her eyes glittered with a mixture of wildness and happiness as she gazed out over the track. Indian Darling had been Ripley's most exciting two year old going into Year Twelve. While the media had focused on Mastermind's raw visual talent, Ripley and Darla had fought to forge a relationship in one of the toughest generation of two year olds yet. The bay had needed time to mature and with every race she had improved in some way. The black blinker hood fit her head like a glove where it used to dwarf her. She had grown and Ripley was wondering if her talent had done the same.
The bay filly dipped her plain Jane nose into Ripley's hand and nickered softly. Ripley's green eyes softened. She would bring the filly back to what she was on her way to becoming before the injury. Ripley patted the filly's shoulder and swung up into the light racing saddle. Darla's head flew up, dark eyes brightening and tail waving over her rump. She stepped out before Ripley could signal and was on the track jogging out of old habit. Only this time she wouldn't be just jogging and cantering. She would be galloping and preparing for a racing career that had been put on hold.
Ripley glanced back to see Brooks aboard Flashpoint. The Flash At Dawn son, bowed his neck, prancing eagerly beneath his male rider. Ripley's eyes narrowed. Somehow this puzzle piece fit where the Hourglass/Brooks' piece did not. Ripley nodded. It was a good fit. She could see that Brooks was just as pleased. His eyes were bright and his color was back in his cheeks. The man asked the colt to move into a jog over the sandy-dirt track. He bowed his neck and stepped out smoothly beneath Brooks. The colt propelled himself over the track, catching up to Indian Darling quite easily.
Ripley was happy to go at the same pace as the yearling colt. He was the more level-headed of the group and Indian Darling would behave herself over the track. Ripley patted the filly's tensed up neck, grinning when she whinnied her arrival to the black birds dive bombing the first turn. The filly had liked her vacation, had been forced to like it, but she always belonged here. Ripley settled back into the filly's swinging stride, welcoming back her friend.
Brooks knew that Moose would find Darla a bit of a challenge even at a gallop. Darla's gallop was like a slow sprint. Moose had not even been tested at that point just yet. The striped face colt flicked his tail over his rump. He was a strong looking colt and he felt strong as well. Muscle rippled beneath his near black hide. He was the spitting image of the younger Fiery Touch if not in color, but in build. Brooks could feel the same intensity blistering beneath his hide as well. Pedigree had dictated the last two colts to join the yearling band and he, like Alucard, was going to have to prove that Ripley's instincts had been correct.
Brooks urged the colt into position on the rail, glad to see that now, even in a canter, he was not frightened of being pinned there by Indian Darling. If there was any mount not interested in pinning a horse down it was Indian Darling. She was a wild son of a gun, but unlike Fie she was interested in intimidating her foes. Brooks looked over at the filly, smirking. She looked brilliant for a filly coming off the DL.
Ripley leaned forward, hands light on the reins. Darla was strong as can be under saddle, had been since she'd been back under tack. Her nostrils twitched with every snort she released into the chilly winter air. Her black mane and tail flew into the air, surrounding her like black fog. She was absolutely rolling over the course, hooves as silent as a deer. Ripley grinned behind her scarf. This was a filly who had matured more over the season than any of the more experienced two year olds. She was mentally tougher and less fidgety. Her eyes were quiet where they used to be wild.
Brooks was nearly just as impressed with Flashpoint. Here was a colt meant to be exactly like his sister in most every department and he completely wasn't. He was focused right now, ready to work right now. In more ways than one, Brooks was clearly reminded of Frozen Motion. He moved as if he'd been galloping his whole life, legs tight beneath him, head level with his shoulders. There was intensity, but it was dangerous because of the focus that bolstered him. Brooks felt as if he were on a rattler waiting to strike. His ear was locked on Indian Darling, watching her every stride, every twitch of her skin.
Brooks felt the colt tense when the filly shifted slightly to the outside three path on command. Ripley had barely moved her fingers and the filly had moved on cue. Ripley reached down to pat the graceful filly's neck. Good girl Darla. The filly mouthed the bit gently, rolling it over her thick pink tongue. Her eyes glimmered with satisfaction and Ripley felt as though if she could see Darla's aura it would be a beautiful happy color. Her racing soul was back where it belonged.
The yearling and two year old scooted over the dirt, well in control and moving as if they could go forever. Brooks and Ripley let the pair out at the same time, grinning when each horse moved a little more enthusiastically then planned. The pair whizzed forward over the track, legs spread apart to cover more ground. Darla pinned her ears when Moose ran up to her and even dared to poke a nose in front. Ripley cocked and eyebrow and shook the reins at her. This was a new trick of Darla's that she must have developed while out to pasture. The filly dropped into another gear, swiftly putting a half-length between herself and Flashpoint.
Moose's head soared into the air, snorting in disgust when dirt kicked back into his nostrils. The bay-black colt tossed his head, snorting again and again and losing ground to the flying filly. Brooks shook his head. He had been expecting this of Darla. She was too full of herself to cooperate the entire time. He lowered his reins as the colt picked up speed. His legs became blurs as he charged after the near sprinting Indian Darling. The wild bay filly cut the corner, nearly cutting Moose off. The slightly larger colt did nothing though. Didn't react. Didn't slow down suddenly. Rather he just skipped over her hooves and rounded up on her outside. Brooks let out a wicked chuckle as they circled up rapidly on the outside of Darla.
Ripley glanced under shoulder, relishing in the happy look in Brooks' gaze. The colt beneath him was looking tougher as he drew closer. She was impressed with him. Darla was returning and she wasn't even trying, but he didn't seem to be either. Brooks' hands were still and the colt was traveling powerfully at Darla's hip. The filly's ears were cocked back to listen to Moose. She put on a burst of speed to knock him off of her and Ripley was jerked back to reality.
She wasn't quite used to this more controlled Indian Darling. This was not the wild filly that could not manage her speed. This was a horse almost as rateable and push-button as Mastermind. Ripley twitched her fingers and the filly settled into an easy gallop, allowing Moose to join her once again on the lead. The horses cruised through the far turn and into the homestretch side by side. Their riders were fiercely impressed. These were strong performances for horses who had been expected to have more faults than the rest.
Instead the colt and filly were striding like pros over the course. The whipping winter wind did not touch them nor their riders. Each rider had a ton of horse beneath them, but neither wanted to push that button just yet. There was a little bit of time before Indian Darling needed to tune up again and a ton of time before Moose would be expected to perform at the top level. Ripley and Brooks pulled the filly and colt up going back into the first turn. They highfived and proceeded to hold hands into the backstretch. Neither Moose nor Darla had any protests about their closeness.
Brooks turned to Ripley, How about switching mounts Marsh? I know this kind of horse and you know Hourglass' type. We both can get a lot more out of them if we stick to what we're good at. Ripley nearly died with laughter, but she held herself together and shrugged. I don't see why not Brookson. Sure. We'll switch. You do well with him. Brooks squeezed her hand, a grin spreading over his face. Ripley always understood.
She looks like she'll be a queen for you come Year Thirteen. Ripley laughed, pat Darla's warm neck. The filly snorted and bowed it. We have hope now.