NEWS
Dutrow’s confidence in Big Brown continues to soar
Posted: Friday, May 30, 2008 4:13 PM
BIG BROWN AND DUTROW AT BELMONT ON MAY 29
Nancy Rokos photo
Trainer Richard Dutrow Jr.’s faith in Big Brown has never wavered, and the outspoken conditioner continued to marvel over the Boundary colt on Friday morning as Big Brown received a bath after galloping over the main track at Belmont Park.
“Look at how good he looks,” Dutrow said. “He just looks unbelievable. I can’t believe I’m training a horse that looks this good and has done what he’s done.
"Forget about it. There’s no way in the world there’s any horse that’s doing any better than Big Brown. It’s impossible. He is just shiny, so proud of himself, he’s just everything you want to see in a racehorse. He’s beautiful to watch train; he’s beautiful to pet, beautiful to be around.”
Dutrow was quick to dismiss the quarter crack as no longer an issue while reiterating that no obstacle would be too much for the colt to overcome in his quest for the first Triple Crown in 30 years, be it a wet track, a turf course, post position, or any of the contenders for the Belmont Stakes (G1) on June 7.
Big Brown has already proven his ability on turf, winning his maiden debut on the grass at Saratoga Race Course by 11 ¼ lengths, as well as his disdain for post position after winning the Kentucky Derby Presented by Yum! Brands (G1) from post 20.
“He’s just a very cool customer,” Dutrow said. “I think he knows things other horses just don’t get. He’s just way ahead. He’s just an absolute pleasure to be around.”
While Dutrow was busy assuring anyone who would listen about Big Brown’s health and ability, Belmont Stakes contender Macho Again breezed a solid half mile under exercise rider Kenny Borque at Churchill Downs in :48.20, 11th best of 55 workouts at the distance.
“It was a very good work,” trainer Dallas Stewart said. “We opened him up a little, and I liked the way he finished. He came home in :11, so we were pretty happy with him.”
Macho Again is expected to ship to Belmont Park on Tuesday.
