Horses

Two weeks ago, Ahvee's Destiny ran 4th in a 5 furlong sprint at Presque Isle Downs, while Awakino Cat ran 3rd in a 6 1/2 furlong sprint the next evening at Presque Isle. It was hoped that Awakino would go on to the Grade 1 Nearctic Stakes in Canada next Sunday (we actually made plane reservations to go to Toronto) and a suitable race or two would be found for Ahvee's Destiny before we retired her to the breeding shed.

Today, we shipped Awakino Cat to Mid-Atlantic clinic to try and deal with a recurring fever. Today, an X-ray was taken of Ahvee's Destiny's front left knee, because she was "getting out" during her morning gallop. The X-ray shows what could be a fracture but for sure is some problem in that knee.

So, we can only hope for a not so serious diagnosis of Awakino Cat and a quick recovery. As for Ahvee, it looks like it's time to decide where she will go to breed. Thinking of her babies brings me a smile. Thinking of her never racing again brings me a frown. She's been our "big" horse, winning 11 times with 4 Stakes victories. I had hoped to visit our house in Saratoga next weekend and see them both galloping and then feed them carrots. I guess Ahvee's Destiny will still be there, but she won't be galloping. I knew this was Ahvee's future. Now it is her present. I guess I'm just not quite ready for it.

Katy's Office Girl was entered in a race today at Belmont but drew post position 16 on the "Also Eligible" list, but she didn't get in. Hear the Footsteps is still in Saratoga since they haven't run a race with the conditions he needs at Belmont. So, we just wait.

Now what? We'll give it some thought.

Best,

A.