"The new guy's coming today to ride," Ripley said as she finished tightening Mastermind's girth. "He's going to ride In Front in his workout and if they get along well enough, he'll stay on to take my spot in the riding roster." Laura scoffed, lifted her piercing blue eyes and aimed them at Ripley. "Then he better be one hell of a rider. He's not going to replace you. We're just going to have to deal with our loss and that's that." Brooks lifted a brow at Laura's remarks. She'd been getting awfully pessimistic lately. It was as though she didn't want to acknowledge the fact that Ripley was retiring in order to start a family. Granted, the child hadn't necessarily been planned and had been conceived out of wedlock, but that wasn't what was sticking in Laura's craw. It had more to do with her female idol calling it quits and stepping down from the mantle of chosen rider. It had to do with Mastermind and Cross My Heart retiring and Hourglass and Saint being taken over by Reese. It was going to be a huge change, but one they had known would come eventually. He would miss riding against her on a daily basis. The challenge made him a better rider for few could out best Ripley Marsh on her best days or her best horses. Brooks let out a sigh, ignoring the crackling silence. There was cause for celebration too. Two of their horses had returned from Blue Cross Estates, prompting the new rider to come fill Ripley's spot sooner than planned. Brooks touched the dark hide of his mount. Flashpoint had returned nearly a grade two winner and in fine form. The horse had developed beautifully from two to three and looked more than handsome horse he'd promised to be. Brooks admired the colt's sleek form and thanked Blue Cross for at least keeping him fit until he could return home. Laura was getting acquainted with her mount for the day, often filling in the floater position whenever two horses with the same rider were in the same workout. Today her mount was Optimus Unstoppable. The colt was built like a brawler with a thick chest and thick butt. He looked like the little engine that could and he most definitely behaved like the little engine the could. Optimus was rebounding off of a third place finish, but his record this season stood for itself. He'd been a bloody consistent bugger from start to finish, currently standing with seven wins. Six of those wins had come this season, showing how talented the animal truly was. The Shiver Me Timbers colt whuffled his lips over Laura's fingers, betraying his sweetness and hiding his demonic qualities that would surely come out on the track. Ripley liked the set up for this workout. Three sprinter/miler types would meet up and do battle over three furlongs of dirt. It called to be an excellent workout and it surely would turn out to be one. She had the best horse of all three, had always had the best horse in Mastermind. The chestnut stallion had been a super star from age two to age four, flying leaps and bounds beyond his own age group. He was untouchable by them and only a recent rivalry with Forbidden To Fly, an older horse, had given him grief. The temperature that had knocked him out of the Winter Dawn Treader Cup still filled Ripley with irritation. She'd watched her own Witch Creek raised Red Herring steal the win over GS Supercharged and Indian Darling. She'd cursed that fever knowing that Mastermind would have rolled that competition if he'd been healthy. She set a hand on the stallion's broad cheek, looked into his eager eyes. Mastermind was an incredible horse, one who filled her with joy and excitement. He never failed to impress her with the ease of his victories or toughness in the face of battle. Mastermind had stolen her heart and she would never find another horse quite like him to ride. She patted the horse's silken neck and stepped to his side to mount up. She settled into the little saddle, picked up the reins and turned him in the broad hallway of the barn. "Let's go. Three furlongs stand between us and our next starts." The other two riders mounted up and fled the barn like a band of thieves. Optimus tossed his head ferociously, hooves skittering down the path excitedly. He was a horse who loved his job and did it well. Laura could feel the immense power in his stout body, looked forward to riding him in this workout. Brooks had said to snatch him at the beginning, but something told her he'd do better at full pace. She let the colt move into a jog down the dirt track, careful to avoid slushy puddles. Optimus snorted, fresh as a daisy despite the hard year of racing. Durability was a result of his blue-collar breeding. Flashpoint's body quivered with knowing when he stepped onto the track. Yesterday, the colt had been worked in the indoor track to get settled in. Today, he would have his first workout back, something he badly needed. He'd come off the trailer running and ready to roll. He'd had a tough mile and a half gallop and had barely blown out a candle upon return. Ripley had determined he was ready for a race off of this workout and several gallops. She didn't want him tearing down the barn or injuring himself. Brooks was glad because he could hardly wait to get the horse in a race. The dark bay bolted into an energetic gallop the moment he hit the track, chasing the flying red banner of Mastermind. The older stallion snaked his head when Flashpoint bounded to his side. The older horse pinned his ears in annoyance, but straightened up at Ripley's rebuke. Sometimes Mastermind liked to remind everyone that he wasn't perfect. Ripley kept her hands at the golden boy's withers, eyes straight ahead as they bustled into the backstretch for the gallop up to the workout. Optimus strained at the bit to be released. His eyes rolled white as Flashpoint charged up to assault Mastermind. Laura's hands burned through the gloves, but she only gave a little bit at a time until the colt settled. Optimus still had a bit to learn, but soon he was running on steadily. The lighter bay colt had an engine in his back end and he would be more than happy to use it to take down the other two. Mastermind moved easily beneath Ripley, not bothered at all by Flashpoint's early bid. The dark bay three year old was a tough nut and he didn't back down when Mastermind remained on the lead. Mastermind didn't exactly have a head to run foolishly when threatened. This was a good lesson for Flashpoint who seemed to settle nicely when it was clear that Mastermind wasn't going to take off. Brooks liked what he felt beneath him, appreciated the efficiency of the body. Flashpoint didn't snort or expend useless energy. He looked like a wild man, but he really wasn't. Optimus, however, was a wild man. He was just begging Laura to release him and let him run as the speed shot up. Mastermind and Flashpoint drew to a four length advantage, leveling their bodies to to the ground in full flight. Optimus was tired of fighting and Laura tired of holding him back. She begged her hands to hold him back just a little more. He'd shoot away like a rocket when the turn ended. Ripley and Brooks sat chilly as their horses fought for control. Or well Flashpoint fought for control. Mastermind was easily mowing down the course as though this were nothing but a gallop. Flashpoint kept up awesomely, but it was clear he'd have to improve leaps and bounds to take down Mastermind. Moose acquitted himself well when he didn't give in, especially when Optimus came roaring down the center of the track. Both Ripley and Brooks looked up at the thunderous hooves, glanced sideways, temporarily throwing their mounts off. Laura was lost in Optimus' black mane, his head and neck were cranked up so that she appeared apart of him. The colt flew over the dirt, slinging rocks and sand in his wake, tail streaming out behind him. He looked like a wild horse as he ripped past Mastermind and Flashpoint like they were standing still. The light bay colt flew through the wire three lengths in front and immediately checked himself down to a leisurely gallop. Mastermind and Flashpoint picked it up upon asking, but both horses appeared quite disgruntled at the loss. Mastermind's eyes blazed with irritation and Flashpoint with disgust. The horses galloped beyond Optimus, tails high in excitement and snottiness. Ripley and Brooks praised the horses, but both looked ahead to the next start. It was time to get back in the ring. For everyone, Optimus included.
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Ripley eyed the collection of riders in the barn with careful eyes. A lot of shifting was to be done in this workout. She was usually the rider for both Mastermind and Saintly Touch, but with both of them in the workout, she could only be rider for one. Mastermind, the gleaming chestnut sculpture, would be her choice. He'd always been her choice. He was the perfect career ender and had been her only option from day one. Reese lingered alongside Saintly Touch, her brown eyes sweeping over his tough, masculine form. The Night Stalker colt looked like a replica of his sire, except for the bit of brown on the inside of his legs and on his muzzle. He had a tapered head, a powerful body and a chest the size of Texas. Saint was an excellent looking two year old and he had developed into a consistent racer, known for his ferocious desire on the track. Reese would be his regular rider in next year's races when Ripley retired from being a jockey to a trainer. Her baby would be born sometime in April, just when the Triple Crown preps were becoming more serious. Reese checked the girth and bridle before moving to her usual mount. Supernatural glistened in good health, the light brown dots danced on a backdrop of snow white. The flea-bitten gray had never looked so perfect. Reese would have a reunion with the admirable filly in The Wire Red Mile. Until then, she would be in the capable hands of Brookson Wells. Brooks tightened the strap beneath his chin, eyes never leaving the filly. He had not ridden Siri ever before and knew she could be a tricky filly in the best of circumstances. Prone to paying more attention to the grand stands than her job, Siri needed a rider who could keep her focused. He'd been Reese's choice for this workout and he intended to do his best. He patted the filly's nose, smiled when she swept her dark brown eyes over him. She was definitely assessing him and that could mean anything. "No foolishness please. The sooner we get this done, the better." "Oh stop it, Wells. Be a man. You can't let every petite girl intimidate you like that." Reese grinned when Brooks shot her a look. "Trust me, I know you're waiting hand and foot on our boss. And she doesn't even like it." Ripley cocked a brow at them as she stepped out of her office. Their embarrassed faces told her everything that she didn't want to know. "I'll pretend you weren't just discussing me and just give you direction, per usual." Ripley smiled at Kendall who was standing patiently alongside Mastermind. The chestnut stallion nickered at Ripley, wriggled his lips down her arm in greeting. She rubbed his white star and smiled. "Three-quarter mile gallop, three furlong breeze for me. For Saint, half mile gallop, five furlong breeze. For Siri, half mile gallop, four furlong workout." Brooks and Reese narrowed their eyes. "I'll break off last when you head into your workouts. I want to give Mastermind a target for a change. Haven't got into a situation where he's broken badly, but you can't be prepared enough. So Saint will break off first and then Siri and then I. Work Saint through the wire, Reese. Time to give him some confidence." The riders exited the barn, quickly mounted up and let the horses head down to the track. Siri pranced beneath Brooks with a ton of energy. She gave the impression that she was absolutely bottomless. She practically was. Who ever heard of a miler being able to run twelve furlongs competitively? Only a couple horses such as Bella Luna and Frozen Motion had existed like that with Witch Creek. The rest were specialists and really gave horses like Siri a boost. Saint strode down the path, ears pricked on the track and eye bright. Reese had fallen in love with the two year old colt long before she'd ever sat on him. He had a personality similar to hers in that he was a loner and often moody. He was misunderstood and had sweetish tendencies, but most of the time he knew exactly what he wanted. He'd been stuck in a rut for sometime and it was time to shake him out of it. Mastermind followed behind the uppity horses, head carried high as though he were taking in his world. He'd become the professed king of the property and possibly was one of the most renowned older males in racing. Mastermind had reached a level that Ripley had never thought would be achievable. He'd outdone his sire and his dam and set a bar that would likely never be touched again. Ripley loved the horse dearly and found herself just a bit sad that there were only two months left to both of their history making careers. Saintly Touch lit into a strong gallop after a bit of jogging. He pulled hard on the bit before settling into stride. Reese loved the power this colt packed. He was definitely going to turn into a nice three year old. He'd been a good two year old so far, but something told her that Saint was taking a journey separate from Hourglass. Everyone had expected the colt to follow in his half-sibling's and dam's footsteps, but his racing lines suggested he was going to bloom beyond the age of two. His gallops and workouts also vouched for the idea. Supernatural trembled like a flame beneath Brooks when the near-black colt ran off with Reese. The flea-bitten gray filly chomped at the bit, tossing her head manically. Brooks let the reins go a little, grunted when she dipped her head and did her best to buck. He heard Ripley snort from the inside as she passed him aboard Mastermind. Obviously Siri was spoiled with leadership tasks. He allowed the filly to speed by, but did not allow her to engage with Saintly Touch. The seal brown was on cruise control and there was no way he was messing with Ripley's plots. Mastermind galloped easily behind, ears pricked on the horses ahead. He was a very malleable horse and she should have expected him to take this easily in stride. She patted his neck as they rounded into the backstretch and prepared for her directions to be executed. Mastermind was more than willing to be her accomplice in the mayhem. Saintly Touch rolled as soon as Reese hit the button. The tough son of Night Stalker pinned his ears and really leaped into his task. He seemed to stretch out immediately, taking full advantage of the release. Reese was careful to not let the reins soar completely out of her grasp. She needed to have the work steady as possible because at some point Siri and Mastermind would run up to him and he'd have to "put them away." Brooks let out a sigh of relief when he held a match to the stick of dynamite. Supernatural broke off like a rocket, long legs flying beneath her lean body as she pursued Saintly Touch. The gray filly was more than on the muscle after having time off and this workout was exactly what she needed. The filly smartly checked up on the turn, ducked to the inside rail and cut time in half. Brooks had to admit he was fairly impressed. She was a smart runner that was more than clear. Reese peaked under her arm when Supernatural rumbled up in the stretch. Her chocolate eyes were full of love for the run and it definitely appeared as though she was full of herself. Reese felt her colt brace against the sudden onslaught and knew she'd have to give him some encouragement to stave off this charge. Mastermind had been steadily reeling in his opponents at the beginning of the turn. He hit top gear at the top of the stretch and flew down the track, mane and tail billowing out behind him like flame. His long strides ate the ground up magnificently cutting the pair's lead down to two lengths mid-stretch. The riders up ahead were locked in a pitched battle, but weren't paying any attention to the fireball gunning for them. Ripley switched the lean stallion to the outside of Siri and sent her comet for the hills. Brooks was startled when Mastermind suddenly appeared on his right, ears pinned and eyes full of determination. Supernatural swerved out in his direction, would have collided if not for Brooks' reinsmanship. Saintly Touch, excited by the sudden loss of pressure picked up the pace, charged through the wire and kept on going with pressure from Reese. The seal brown colt looked surprised, but he dove headfirst into the work and blew out the final furlong. Reese was smiling when she pulled the colt up, trembling with excitement. He'd just done a tough workout and the colt had finished better than he'd started. Ripley and Brooks had Mastermind and Supernatural pulled up to a jog when Reese turned back with Saint. The chestnut and gray were hardly puffing, fit as they possibly could be for their tall tasks in the sprint and mile series. Ripley nodded in approval when Reese joined them. "That was a very good workout for him. You'll probably be on him from here on out in his workouts. Hope you enjoyed that because that's only just the beginning of what he has to give you." "Round Three coming up," Reese called as she tightened the girth. A grumbling assent came from Ripley who was wrapping polos on Mastermind's legs. "Maybe we finally get the better of you, Marsh." Ripley laughed as she stood, turning her sharp gaze to the flea-bitten gray. "You can try, but, unless she's a disguise for Forbidden To Fly, you aren't going to." Reese shook her head, trying to hide her smile. Sometimes her and Ripley got along. Most of the time they didn't... at least on a personal level. Many of Ripley's professional training calls fell right in line with Reese's own beliefs. There were very few times Reese had disagreed with the auburn-haired woman. "So what do you think decides who wins Sprinter of the Year?" "Honestly, I think the voters will. It's like both Fly and Mastermind go to separate Breeders' Cup races. Mastermind simply runs best at a mile and Fly simply runs best at less than that. Unfortunately, most of the mile races are over so we're in his house." A wave of frustration swept through Ripley's body. She was tired of getting beaten by Stride Of Perfection Stables and their meddling gray sprinter. She wanted that horse to step into the ring and take on Mastermind at distances longer than seven furlongs. It had happened very few times this season and Mastermind simply could not beat the animal at shorter distances. Reese felt a similar frustration toward Anodyne. Only it wasn't just Siri that was getting beaten by the bay Intrepid colt. It had been In Front too. The handsome bay colt had run a hard season in Year Fourteen and was now being freshened for an older horse campaign. It wasn't fair to run him into the ground and hope he didn't start tailing off of top placings. He didn't deserve that. He was too good a horse to waste time chasing more precocious three year old colts. Reese shook herself. Who was she? Justin, Brooks? Did any of the three beings have anything to do with today's workout? NO. The South American woman lead the lean gray filly from the barn, appreciating the pep with which Supernatural moved. She had turned around quite nicely after being backed to the shorter distances. She'd been taken out of her element in the eleven furlong Consumato Derby, but now she was back within her preferred range. The Risorgimento Derby was beckoning her with a very promising prize if she won. Siri would be the first horse of Witch Creek's to defeat Anodyne. That was more than worth a trip over the classic distance of ten furlongs. "We're going to stalk Anodyne until we can stalk him no more. Then we'll pounce, darling," Reese crooned as she mounted Siri. The gray filly dipped her head, mouthing the bit as she took in the sight of her familiar foe. She seemed to be thinking, him again? Mastermind gleamed in all of his copper glory, head turned away from his workmate toward the dirt track. His ears were pricked and his eyes were very bright. He looked as content as a horse could be. He was a brilliant horse, the only horse to be able to capture The King's Bishop twice. He'd done it as a three year old and had gutsilly done it as a four year old. Twenty eight victories was nothing to sneeze at, especially when he'd only run for two and three quarter seasons. Ripley was so ridiculously proud of her mount, so impressed with the way he had grown up. Never had he once been a disappointment. He'd had a rough go of it in the beginning of his three year old season, but he'd more than made up for it as an older horse. His next start in the My Trusty Cat Stakes would be a stepping stone to his final goal: The Breeders' Cup Dirt Mile. The Breeders' Cup would be a fabulous culmination to an outstanding and otherworldly career. Ripley hoped the swell animal received his praise and accolades, but for now it was one race at a time. The pair of horses strode down the track, muscles pumping beneath shimmering hides. The early morning light welcomed the thoroughbreds into the chaotic world of Witch Creek at 6 A.M. Uno Momento and Awestruck galloped heartily down the center of the track, really getting into the exercise. Casualty of War and Vagabond were pulling up along the rail, snorting fog out of their nostrils. Malcolm walked the newbies Miss Josephine and Queen's Honesty just outside of the rail, showing them the way Witch Creek worked. Ripley could absolutely say she had died and gone to heaven looking at the magnificent horseflesh on the track. And this was only the dirt guys. Mastermind broke into a gallop first, more than on the muscle after a week break. The chestnut horse moved mightily over the dirt, ears pricked and eyes bright. He was a happy soul and one of the most willing creatures to work. Ripley kept a light hold on the bit, reminding him ever so often that she was still present. "Four furlong breeze. Aim for :50. Lots of time to get speedy come race day. Want them fresh, not exhausted." Siri disagreed heartily with the last statement, flinging her head high and throwing a fit at the restraint. Used to being allowed to fly, Siri rejected the idea of controlled speed. She dogged Mastermind through the first portion of the work, ears pinned and mouth agape. Ever the pro, Mastermind simply flicked his ears at her and failed to go on. Squealing like a yearling, Siri attempted to bully Mastermind, pushing the chestnut toward the rail with impressive force. Reese yanked the right rein, pulling the Dylan Himself filly off of Mastermind. Ripley gritted her teeth when Siri drew off of Mastermind. She was a pest. A fleet-minded runner if there ever was one. When she was on, she was dead on. It appeared her focus was only dedicated to racing in actual races. Reese scrubbed on the gray mare on the far turn, shaking her head when the horse easily switched her leads. She was a fleet-minded animal with the smoothest action of a true runner. The Dylan Himself filly pulled on Mastermind then. The gallant chestnut horse was loping easily as though this were a walk in the park. Ripley flung herself forward into the homestretch, signaling to the Speed Demon horse that it was game time. He hurled away, kicking up massive clumps of dirt in his wake. Supernatural flew up to him, gangly legs spreading out beneath her with grace. She was a nice filly to watch because of her ground eating stride. She was tough and beautiful in motion. The filly and stallion rolled down the stretch, full of confidence and energy. Ripley slapped Mastermind's neck as he danced beneath the line. "Very good, big man." Siri skirted around the older horse, eyes glowing brilliantly. She was more than ready for the Risorgimento Derby. Her mind-set was going to be completely different come race day. Reese could hardly wait to let her fly. It'd been a while since the workout pairings had been switched up. Since last year really. Ripley was very particular against working two year olds against their elders, especially four year olds. Laura glanced anxiously down the barn row, eyes glinting. She'd hardly expected the list that popped out this morning. Nirvana and Casualty of War hadn't been the surprise. What had been the surprise was the third name. Mastermind. A name that was becoming more legend than reality, more reverential than down-to-earth. The lean Adonis that stood tied at the very end of the barn had only lost four races out of twelve starts this season. To say he was in his prime would be an understatement of a vast career spanning three seasons. The chestnut horse looked so athletic even now, poised and elegant with his gear on. He was a photographer's dream. Laura glanced at her heavy-set mount, smirked. She had a great face, but miss Nirvana would only ever be cute. It wasn't that Vana was dull or plain to look at. She wasn't. She had more muscle to her fore-hand than any other two year old on the property. She had a spark in her eye and a big enough engine to dismantle her opponents in the stretch. She was just the complete opposite of what Witch Creek normally housed. The powerful bay-black creature before Vana was exactly what Witch Creek normally housed. As one of the few Man O' War lined horses on the racetrack, Casualty of War stood out for his regal and old time breeding. Add in the dashing good looks, the epic temper and fury on the track and you basically got typical WCS. Justin took in the large expanse of his colt, eyes gleaming with excitement and pride. There was no better looking two year old than Sultan. He just had an edge above the rest. It was his maturity and his wildness that drew Justin like moth to flame. The colt just had the "It" factor. A winner of three races on the turf, Casualty of War was about to make a career switch. Ripley had suggested sending the horse to the dirt having seen how well he did over the dirt track at home. Perhaps, there was something there. Today would be Sultan's first test. It would be stiff and it would be interesting to say the least. Justin hoped that Ripley was correct in assuming Sultan's affinity for the dirt for it would take "greatest dirt runner to ever live" to take down Mastermind. Ripley kept her thoughts to herself as she tidied up the bandages on Mastermind's hind legs. The gleaming chestnut stud did his own talking and that was more than effective. Ripley stood, smiled at the two younger riders. Not that she wouldn't love taking the kids down a peg. She could ride just as brilliantly as ever, but she wouldn't be obvious. "Alright. We're going to have a solid workout today. It's time to let these guys roll and allow them to decide if they want to go to the Breeders' Cup or not." Laura and Justin exchanged glances, nervous. It was not quite clear if either of them would be granted the opportunity to ride in the Breeders' Cup this season. Those spots were becoming harder and harder to come by. Sultan was in greater danger than Vana of not making the Breeders' Cup. "...So I want a solid five furlong workout after a mile gallop up. Sultan can lead or settle wherever he's comfortable. Laura, do your best to stay close." The riders left the barn in silence, each pondering their next actions carefully. Justin knew Casualty of War wasn't a speed ball, but the horse seemed to naturally cruise along. Perhaps he would rate alongside Mastermind and actually keep the horse company for a change. Ripley was thinking along similar lines, a light furrow between her brows marking the thought. Laura mounted, but a smile was on her lips. Vana wasn't a show off in her workouts or races. She was a true-blue, hard-working grinder. There was no pizzazz, but there was a hell of a lot of blunt honesty. The colts bolted into their energetic gallops, muscles pumping beneath gleaming hides. Sultan's gaze was alight with fire and irritation when Mastermind easily kept up. The lean chestnut settled in at the rail, ears pricking despite the ominous presence of the Man O' War colt. The bay-black creature pushed head and head with the older horse for the entire first turn, really letting the older horse know he was there. Vana lagged along at the back, ears flopping back and forth on her skull. She wasn't a hard core runner like Sultan, definitely not a cunning animal like Mastermind. She lumbered along at her own pace, snorting through her nostrils as if she were really putting out a major effort. Laura could feel that she wasn't. The horse beneath her vibrated with energy and all of it was coming from the bay's hind end. The filly bowed her neck, flexing and showing Laura she was just pretending. Ripley peeked under her arm as Mastermind cruised down the backstretch, well within himself. Casualty Of War had fallen off of him after a little bit of chasing. It would be futile to chase a proven sprinter and hope to beat him at his own game. Justin sat still as a stone, hands idle at the near black's withers. He liked what he felt beneath him. The muscular colt hummed with energy. He was handling the dirt better than expected, skipping over it despite his size. Justin really liked what he felt a lot. He patted the colt's muscled neck, a grin touching his features. Mastermind rounded back into the backstretch, pressing into Ripley's hands. He was full of himself and Ripley felt like she was sitting on a keg. How much longer could he continue this string of amazing victories and powerful wins? No horse could keep this kind of resonating success for an entire year. He'd have to be something amazing and Ripley was banking on it. She had to. The end of the season was coming quickly. All of Mastermind's resources would be tapped by the end. Ripley ran a hand down the stud's neck, bolstering herself up. He was a good boy. Laura nudged Vana forward, chirping as she did to egg the filly on. The two year old responded with a punch of speed, enough to close the gap between herself and Sultan to three lengths. That got Sultan's attention. Justin barely had time to prepare himself before the colt made his bid for the lead. The black-bay colt swarmed up on Mastermind's outside, furious as a nest of disturbed hornets. Mastermind, caught unaware, repelled the bid with another gear and promptly cut the corner. "Of course," muttered Laura. Vana stuttered briefly when Mastermind cut off her hole, before moving between Sultan and the older horse. With a determined thrust, the blaze-faced filly bulled her way into the space. Sultan pinned his ears, cocked his head sideways as though he might savage her. Justin cranked the colt's head sideways, turned him front and set him down for the stretch. Laura took pride in her ballsy filly. Others would have been cowed by the obvious threat, but not Vana. She ground it out, eyes fiercer and darker than before. Sultan would pay for the insult. Vana became an immovable block in Sultan's way to get to Mastermind. The bay filly glued herself to the Man O' War colt like a flea and ran relentlessly with him. Frustration wafted off of Sultan as Mastermind skipped away to a length lead while he was preoccupied with Vana. Justin's curiosity was amped to the max. Few would have denied being impressed with the move Sultan had made on the turn. Perhaps the colt was a better animal on the dirt. It was no insult to lose to Mastermind as many had. Perhaps, he's better than I thought... Ripley patted Mastermind's neck as she watched the others finish up two lengths behind. That'd been harder than expected, but that was exactly what Mastermind would need going forward. Even legends could be beaten. It was up to the trainers to find ways to prevent such losses from occurring. Reese knew how much The Devil's Hourglass meant to Ripley Marsh. It was so clear in every look, touch, word that Ripley directed at the filly. It was so clear to everyone how insanely talented the bay filly with the white star was. How many horses won the Breeders' Cup Juvenile Turf and later won the Belmont Turf Classic? Very few. Hourglass could run from nine furlongs to twelve furlongs on the lead or closing. How many horses could run a twelve furlong race on the lead at every call and still be there at the end to hold off the charge of Call Of The Wild? Not many. Only a horse with a magnificent heart and iron will. Ripley would love to hear Reese describe The Devil's Touch's filly in such a way. Reese kept it to herself as she put the finishing touches on the bay horse. Hourglass leaned into the brushes, a docile pet during grooming and tacking up. It was only game time when she caught sight of the turf track at home, The Wire or Green Horse Fields. Today, Hourglass would go head and head with the only horse that could egg her on and still be with her at the end. That horse was Mastermind. Another horse whom Ripley adored more than her own life. The progeny of her two favorite mares were easily becoming the most successful horses she'd ever raced or bred. The magnificent chestnut stallion stood powerfully outside of the barn, gleaming like a shiny copper coin. Mastermind was brilliance personified. It spoke with every step he took, every race he ran. He was gutty and talented. He could fight with the best, go five rounds with the champ and still be ready for the next race. Ripley would go out with her big horse. Go out with a big bang. Ripley's green eyes were cloudy with thought. She sat quietly and primly on the back of her chestnut mount. She was so content with her life right now, but things would change quite rapidly in December when she was forced to quit riding due to her pregnancy. She ran a soft hand down Mastermind's neck, smiling when the stallion didn't even budge a muscle. It was as though he felt her emotion. He perked up when Reese rode out of the barn on the stout Hourglass. Hourglass touched noses with the stallion, trotted by him with a twitch of her tail and headed for the turf track. Mastermind only moved when Ripley picked up the reins and nudged him forward. The Speed Demon horse, bowed his chin to his chest, trotted regally after the younger half of the pairing. He was a confident son of a gun. And why shouldn't he be? He only lost once in a while and while many people considered Witch Creek arrogant, Ripley didn't. When a horse was hot, he was hot. End of story. Mastermind was on a raging wild fire and Ripley was soaking it in. How many horses came around like this? Not many. The auburn haired woman allowed the colt to skip confidently into a gallop. His ears were pricked right up over his head and his eyes blazed with excitement. Hourglass was a fun opponent. She simply raged over the turf, engulfing it with magnificent strides. Reese was finding it just as thrilling to ride as it was to watch. Who knew that this dynamite filly could gallop along so easily in a race and be so demanding in a workout. She wasn't a morning glory by any means. She could roll along just as beautifully in a race as she did now. Hence the victory in the Belmont Turf Classic. Reese's fingers itched to release the bullish filly, but she held on tight. Mastermind may have distance limitations, but he was canny enough to hold his speed down until the time was right. The pair of horses galloped over the hills, slowing only on the steepest ones. The hills were intimidating to the riders, but to the horses they were just fun. Mastermind cruised about two and a half off of the rogue bay filly. Ripley kept her hands relaxed on the horse's withers, impressed with his performance. He didn't run as often as Hourglass did on these hills and yet he strolled along as though he'd been doing it his whole life. Reese could feel Hourglass concentrate more and more on the horse behind her. She had never faced Mastermind in a gallop or a workout before. He was a completely different type of animal. He didn't just fall away like Paranormal Hunter and come running at the end. He didn't linger like Bella Luna and then explode. He kept right on coming, draining her, but not draining himself. This workout would be a test of mettle and exactly what the star-marked filly needed for her first start against older horses. Ripley allowed the chestnut stud to catch up to Hourglass at the crest of the hill. Both animals seemed to pause and take a breath before they charged down the opposite side. They were complete opposites and yet both were filled with such brutal speed and talent. Mastermind was regal and lean while Hourglass was stout and physically. Both possessed raw speed with the ability to sit and pounce. The hills had leveled the playing field some and it was time to see what both of them had left. In answer to Ripley's unspoken curiosity, both chestnut and bay launched across the three furlong flat. Hourglass' hooves crushed the earth beneath her while Mastermind skimmed across the surface. His ears were up. Her ears were pinned and her eyes blazed in such ferocity. Mastermind was not playing though. Ripley knew that the hills had taken a toll on her mount and he was running on courage and heart. He flew through the second furlong with ease before he pinned his ears in absolute effort. Hourglass sensed her foe was weakening and dug in for the kill. She surged forward, snapping up what little separation there had been and forced Mastermind to throw down all his cards. He did with a brilliant gear, stunning the heavier bay with his tenacity. Together, the pair roared through the final furlong, running on heart more than talent, running on courage instead of raw ability. If toughness came into play in the final half of the season, both horses were more than prepared to deal with the devil and come out on top. July Week Threespeed, speed and more speed"We seem a bit like the underdog in this one, Vana," Laura murmured as she adjusted the bridle on Nirvana's head. The Gold Storm filly was standing quietly in her stall, wise eyes staring straight into Laura's blue ones. The filly was an odd sort of horse. She was calm, quiet, collected, but on the track she could be downright fierce. She was one of the most impressive closing fillies on the racing circuit with enough heart for three horses. She just couldn't connect with the wire first. Laura adored Nirvana with all of her heart, feeling as though this filly was cruising under the radar. A snort drew Laura's gaze out of the box stall to the chestnut horse between the cross-ties. An answering snort and stomp sounded down the row. Oh yes, compared to the colts at Witch Creek Stable, particularly these colts, Nirvana was definitely the underdog. Sun King and Saintly Touch were both winners of four races, but they were demanding of their audience and competition. Sun King had recently been termed a monster and Saintly Touch had simply been beautiful in every race he ran. It was going to be a crash course for Nirvana, but Laura knew the thick filly was up to it. Sun King's eyes blazed into Brooks' as he pulled on his helmet. Energy coursed through the man's body and left him bristling. This colt was something else. He was tough and fierce, physically fit and thick. He just had this arrogance and ferocity that was different than anything Brooks had ridden before. King knew how impressive he was and he never missed a chance to flaunt it. The colt switched his tail over his haunches, stomping his hooves in impatience. He was tired of standing around. Ripley pulled her gloves on, green eyes flicking over Saintly Touch's body. His body was nicely dappled out, his muscle showing beneath glossy hide, and his one seeing eye gleamed softly. Saint was not King in terms of temperament, but what lurked underneath the colt's glossy good manners was a demon wanting to be freed. She stepped up the colt, running a hand down his shoulder, smiling when he nuzzled her arm. He was growing more affectionate every day. "We'll go six furlongs workout. Only a half-mile gallop lead up. If they were to gallop out powerfully, let them. It's time to get serious." Brooks laughed at Ripley as he led King by. "Yeah, all of that stuff before was just play." Laura cocked a brow at the pair, feeling like a third wheel. "They may not notice us now, Vana, but they will." Vana snorted, standing still as Laura mounted up in the barn. The blaze faced filly stared after the colts as they left the barn, ears pricked and eyes bright. She stood still though, a partner to Laura, and waited until her cue was given. The stout filly strode out of the barn, only moving into a trot when asked. King and Saint burst onto the track before Vana was halfway down the path. Neither colt was a fan of the other so ears pinned and eyes blazed in fury when they were together between the gap. The horses looked like compete opposites, light vs dark, but their attitudes became similar in the wide open space. Sun King flashed his teeth. Saint flashed his flint-like hooves. The colts broke into barely controlled canters up the track, kicking up dirt in their wake. Ripley and Brooks were completely still on the colts, peering backward to make sure that Vana was following. The blaze faced filly slammed into gear the minute Laura dropped her to the rail. Her mahogany colt glinted in the early morning light as she burst through the crowd of birds gathered in a puddle. The birds flew off with insulted squawks, but Vana didn't pay them any mind. Her attention was drawn to the flying seal brown and chestnut colts. The reins were taunt in Laura's hand and the rider was impressed. Usually the two year old wasn't into the bridle this early. She might have been intelligent enough to understand what Ripley had spoken. Laura slipped her gloved hand down to pat her neck, beyond amused and ready for the stretch run. Sun King blazed through the backstretch, head high and tail in the air. He was an absolute powerhouse in full flight, his muscles really showed beneath his glistening golden hide. To Brooks, this horse looked beyond wonderful even from on his back. It was a testament to Saintly Touch's talent that he was hanging at Sun King's hip. The woman aboard the near black colt was thinking it was more than just talent. Saintly Touch had grit and courage. He was a grinder and more than a handful for the chestnut Native Flame colt. Saint's left eye was filling gradually with fury after every passing furlong pole. He wasn't making his move just yet, but he would not allow this bigger colt to get away with murder. Pressure was key and Saint knew how to apply just the right amount of pressure. The Night Stalker colt loomed at King's shoulder as swept into the turn. He made the executive decision to push King right down to the rail, his heavier muscle making its first appearance on the track. It was funny that he pulled the same trick as The Devil's Touch and The Devil's Hourglass. A family trait that was beyond useful. Laura and Vana watched the chess game playing out in front with intense eyes. Vana had been long since warmed up and now she was really pulling Laura into the turn. It was time to let her go. Throwing the reins at Vana's neck, Laura released her stout filly on the big boys, grinning when she blazed trail in the four path off the turn. A crowd had gathered at the rail to watch and everyone pointed in near unison at the ballsy move of Nirvana. The bay filly roared down the stretch, body stretched to her greatest advantage. She bore down on the boys, switching easily over Saintly Touch's heels. Sun King pinned his ears at the sight of the filly on the far outside, furious that he was being pushed so recklessly. Brooks was shaking his head in defeat, but he stopped when he realized his chestnut colt was responding to the dual challenges. Saintly Touch could not see Nirvana, but he certainly could feel her. Ripley did not stop breathing when King and Vana pinned her seal brown colt in between them. All three hides touched, but Saint did not become intimidated. Instead he bullied his way through the pinch, fighting fiercely. The two others went with him in a desperate rush to at least finish in a tie if they couldn't get a win. The trio landed on the wire together, barely separated by any physical part of the body. The riders let out excited hoots and high-fived as their horses continued to truck into the first turn again. A perfect workout for what promised to be an impressive second half of the season. simply superiorReese had looked at the white board this morning in surprise and unease when she saw the second workout pairing of the day. Supernatural, Reese's beautiful filly, would be taking on none other than the nearly unbeatable Mastermind. Reese could only question Ripley's reasoning with this one. She adored Supernatural, but never in her wildest dreams did she think the gray compared to Mastermind, Ripley's protege. The Speed Demon stallion was sensational this year and he had always been, but he was more sensational than in his previous years. Reese called Siri her 'Steady Eddie.' The Dylan Himself filly could be brilliant and gutsy, but she did not possess the wow factor. If the gray filly won it was because of her grit and determination not because she was infinitely more talented than the rest. Reese patted the gray nosed filly, smiling into chocolate-colored eyes. Siri was a traditional dirt horse and she was a consistent one at that. She only ranked third in the three year old fillies division behind Battle Wings and Reflected In Water. Her ranking had been hard fought against the boys for the majority of Year Fourteen. She was back against those same males in the Easy Goer Red Mile and this time she was joined by Battle Wings. Reese looked forward to the race. If Ripley believed a workout with Mastermind would set Siri up for a rousing victory, by God, Reese would send her gray against the hulk every day of the week. Ripley patted 'The Hulk' after she tightened the girth one last notch. The elegant chestnut stallion quivered with excitement, flashing an affectionate glance in Ripley's direction. Their partnership had been smooth from the get-go and it seemed the only place to go was up. The gleaming horse paraded out of the barn, head high, whinnying as he emerged from the barn. Several heads picked up in the pasture, ears pricked in Mastermind's direction. Ripley smirked, patted the horse and jumped onto his back. The horse pranced briefly, but his attention soon diverted to Supernatural. Reese was already mounted, letting the reins swing down around Siri's neck. The filly strode by Mastermind as though he weren't even there. She had purpose and was acting on it. She was a grinder type filly, but she worked as hard as possible for every victory. Reese liked how Supernatural had turned out, appreciated the dirt filly's honesty. Most horses weren't nearly as honest. Mastermind stalked after Supernatural, ears pricked on her lean form. She was a competitor and he was assessing her. His ears flicked back when Ripley jerked the bit in his mouth. He'd been pulling heavily to stay within range of Supernatural. Siri always bolted the minute she hit the gap and Mastermind would not be bolting with her. Ripley's green eyes flashed when Mastermind defied her momentarily, reminding her that she needed to ask not demand. Demanding got nowhere with this marvelous Speed Demon stallion Reese leaned forward just as Siri expectantly darted forward. Her feet slammed into the dirt fiercely, ears slamming against her neck. It was all for show. Siri was not a serious runner at first, She waited and waited until it was time for the homestretch. That was part of the problem. If she didn't focus immediately on this certain task, Mastermind would leave her six feet below the ground. Reese glanced under her arm, smiling when Mastermind blew by. The chestnut horse was on a mission. He'd obviously sized up the competition and agreed with Ripley's plan of attack. Ripley would never get over this horse. He was her big one, bigger than his dam, though she had more of Ripley's heart. He'd been her partner for the last two and a half years and she would not fail him. The same thing went for the legendary horse. He was indeed becoming legendary on the track. There was no doubt in Ripley's mind that he could join El Sol Del Mar in the Hall of Fame one day. It would be the icing on the cake for her star horse's career. He had nothing left to prove. Everything here on out was for fun and the horse's enjoyment. Reese could tell Mastermind was playing with Siri despite his fast pace. He was a brutal runner and he definitely would not take any prisoners. Her was merciless and spared no feelings. Siri, who normally had her ears up and playing at this point, was far more interested than usual. She'd never faced an opponent who had given her no leeway. Her ears were pinned against her neck and her dark eyes were flashing with irritation. Her pace was strong and her stride long. She was fluid as ever, but her intensity was as thick as the humid summer air. Reese kept the reins loose despite the change. Siri was in the bridle and ready to roll when called upon. Mastermind cruised over the dirt course, muscling his way forward with power. The star-marked stallion was taking the six furlong workout very seriously. Ripley's hands would have been burning if she wasn't wearing gloves. He was just that strong today. His next start in the Penn National Derby would not come soon enough. Reese shook the reins at Siri the minute Mastermind took a step into the far turn. This is where the horse threw off his competition like bugs. Siri responded, throwing her body into the movement and nearly tearing the reins through Reese's fingers. Her sleek gray form streaked over the course, cutting the turn precisely and making up two lengths on Mastermind. The Dylan Himself filly wheeled off the far turn, ears pinned and body tense. Reese was impressed with what the filly was showing her. She was showing her drive and competitive fire. Ripley did not have to glance under her arm to know Siri was breathing down Mastermind's neck. The gray filly was rounding back into form and she'd grown tired of being the bridesmaid in every race. Ripley urged Mastermind on with slight nudging, grinning when he responded with another gear. Siri was a thorough grinder though and Mastermind could not shake her loose. Reese mildly urged the filly on with her body movement and chirps, smiling when Siri reached Mastermind's neck. The two horses rolled through the wire with Mastermind being the clear winner. Reese was laughing like a loon by the time they pulled up. Siri had pulled a beautiful workout out of her hat and she was ready to take on the best of her generation, fillies or colts. Ripley could only think that Mastermind was the best of his generation. She stroked the horse's satiny neck, dreaming of what was still to come. |
WorkoutsPlease realize that I do add in workouts before they are necessarily due. If you are looking for a specific horse because you are judging a race, click on his/her name below and his/her latest workout will appear at the top or your screen. Categories
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