More from Saratoga

Michael wanted me to photograph some well-known trainers which felt weird seeing that we used to work along side them every day. But he was thinking ahead in blogging terms, always the marketer, so here goes.

Nick Zito was engaged with owners, intense and thoughtful at Oklahoma trackside. Did you know that Nick and his wife rescue thoroughbreds from slaughter houses? And the killer wagon?
That's why he'll always be my hero. What heart-wrenching, honorable work. Class act in many ways.

I aimed my camera at Wayne Lukas as he rode with his set of silent, stoic exercise riders. He glared at me so intently I decided I didn't want to jeopardize a thoroughly enjoyable morning. I think he recognized Michael who loved to aggravate him whenever the opportunity arose.

Did I mention that Michael and I were accused of bringing Florida weather up with us? I actually brought jackets and jeans. Ha! It was as if we never left home. Hot and humid as hell.

Below is a candid of Bobby Frankel, no doubt waxing philosophical
about the proposed "Win and You're In" program. He watches his horses train from that very bench at the end of his barn. It's a clear view of the middle of the turn.

Bobby Frankel and admirers.

These are the shots that an artist lives for. Between the 7/8 and 3/4 poles around the turn.

Michael built in the mid-80's for the Savin family. It's located on Gridley Street off Nelson parallel to the 3/4 chute at the main track. Before the addition of the barn in back, our horses had a clear view of the training track for the standardbreds at Saratoga Raceway (which by the way has a casino). The trotters train all day long and our horses thought if was fascinating, faces stuck in the back stall windows. Barclay Tagg was in it for awhile and now it's occupied by Barry Bonds. The old haunt is holding up well.

It's a long walk down the street to the main track to train. Amidst traffic and all which is now closed to through traffic. Can't tell you how many horses moi walked down this street to the track - and to the paddock.