Mongolian Saturday escorted to the track ahead of the rest of field for the April 8 Shakertown Stakes. He finished 6th.

Constellation, who finished second in the Madison Stakes. It was my first glimpse of the Birdcatcher spots she has that must have cleverly inspired her name.

Kathballu being saddled for the April 8 Madison Stakes

Sailor’s Valentine, eventual winner of the April 8 Central Bank Ashland Stakes

Daddy’s Lil Darling, who I later became acquainted with. She truly is as sweet as her name suggests, and finished second in the Ashland. She is expected to run in the Kentucky Oaks.

Part of the field for the Ashland

First time by in the Ashland, with Someday Soon leading the pack and eventual winner Sailor’s Valentine (#7) running in second place.

Ashland Stakes, first time by

Top two finishers in the Ashland, Sailor’s Valentine and Daddy’s Lil Darling

Pretty City Dancer after the Ashland

Sailor’s Valentine nearing the wire for the victory in the Ashland

Looks like a blissful day for this pony

Practical Joke in the paddock for the Blue Grass Stakes

Irap, a half-sibling to Speightstown, and eventual Blue Grass Stakes winner

Practical Joke got a little antsy in the paddock and reared up, just as It’s Your Nickel did before him.

McCraken, undefeated until the Blue Grass, where he finished third.

Irap, second in the early stages of the Blue Grass

Into the turn for the Blue Grass

Irap past the wire in the Blue Grass, becoming the first maiden winner in its history