Rain Rain go away!

As if we weren't spoiled enough here in California, now we can't even race when it rains. After several days of canceling its race card due to wet weather and track conditions, Santa Anita is back up and running. Today a full morning workout took place as the track is scheduled to undergo some surface changes which will hopefully help with tracks ability to absorb and drain water. If you have never had the opportunity to ride a horse around the Santa Anita oval in the morning, you are missing out. Watching the sun rise over the beautiful San Gabriel Mountains is like watching God hand paint a picture of what Heaven must be like. I've spent many mornings on top of race horses and pony horses and it is something I will never forget. The feel of the cool morning air blowing on your face as you make your way around there, gliding with every stride the horse takes. It is as though you are floating on air. To even stand at Clockers Corner and watch as many horses pass by you going to and from the track is amazing. I can still picture it and almost feel it in my mind. I was always mindful of the risks we take as jockeys and made sure to take in every morning as if it were my last. For that I am lucky as in my mind I can picture all the different scenes I have been blessed enough to see. In case any of you have been wondering, jockey Cory Nakatani is on the sidelines after breaking his collar bone in an accident during a morning workout. As you make your wagers please remember the risks that these men and women make to bring you the excitement you enjoy. It is easy to get mad at a jockey for a poor ride or losing on a favorite. I just ask you to remember that every jockey wants to win every race and when they don't they are just as disappointed as you.