The most winningest horse in Emerald Downs history finished his 2011 season in fine style, doing what he does best – winning races. West Seattle Boy will be 13 years old January 1, 2012 & could be back for another year, but showed his focus and tenacity with a determined win this afternoon going 1 1/16 against competition a little tougher than what he’s accustomed to.
As a result of the higher level of horses in the race, West Seattle Boy walked into the starting gate as a 7-1 outsider on the tote board, but his connections, everyone from the breeder and owner on down to the groom and hotwalker, knew he’d be competitive at the very least. They knew he’d been rested since his last race, and relished the sloppy, muddy racetrack surface he was getting in Seattle today.
’Boy made his 103 rd start this afternoon, a day which marked the end of this year’s live racing season, or meeting, at emerald downs. He went into the gate with the nonchalant ease one would expect of a runner who’d done it so many times before. And ‘Boy appeared to enjoy his 25 th trip to the Winner’s Circle after the racde, where he greeted by an enthusiastic crowd of supporters.
I didn’t know anything about this horse before this year, but have seen him race several times, and am grateful for having the opportunity to witness West Seattle Boy’s talent. He won his first ever race 10 years ago as a 2 year old, and proved again today that he loves winning, regardless of the distance, the level of competition, the weather, or his age.
emerald downs already told his trainer he would be welcomed back next year, but I’m not going to wait for 2012 to salute West Seattle Boy, who has provided many people with thrills, inspiration, and tremendous satisfaction.
He’s a warrior, and a champion. Simply watch the race replay and observe how he ( number 5 ) comes on late in the race. He swings wide and takes the lead, but wins by digging in to hold off a strong challenge from Form a Posse.
note: I have links to some of this horse’s other races this year 7 may add them to this story later. Thanks.
Advertisement
