Velka Pardubicka 2009 - The Vana legend is extended even further 11.10.2009
The 119th Velka Pardubicka, run on October 11th 2009, will go down in history as one of the great renewals of this great race. However, before beginning on a description of the drama, I must begin with an unconditional apology for being one of many who said and wrote that Josef Vana, at the age of almost 57, with a body severely impacted by numerous major racing-related injuries, and having ridden just two races this year, should not have been riding in the race. I also apologise to the horses for suggesting that, with the exception of Sixteen, they were a moderate lot, and also for saying that 25 runners was far too many. In the event, 18 got round and all contributed to a dramatic race. The first five past the post all put in very fine performances, and several others did really well. more ...
The Velka Pardubicka meeting 2.10.2009
The Velka Pardubicka meeting is the high point of the Czech steeplechasing season. It is also a major social and national event in the Czech Republic. If you are invited to the box of one of the Czech sponsors on Velka Pardubicka day, it is appropriate to be smartly turned out and to be aware that for many Czechs this day is considered as a major symbol of Czech nationhood. more ...
Sixteen impresses 23.08.2009
The Skanska Grand Prix, third of the four qualification races for the the Velka Pardubicka, which will be run on October 11th, produced a winner with all the credentials to win the big race. Though Sixteen won the VP in 2007 and 2008, she has generally been considered a less than great champion. In 2007, she did not beat much, and in 2008 she only won on the disqualification of a better horse, Amant Gris, and in general she has a good rather than an excellent record. This time, however, she was formidable. She took the lead as early as the Snake Ditch and never looked like being headed. In the finishing straight she pulled away very impressively. more ...
Super Lord 20.08.2009
An interesting entry for the Skanska Grand Prix, the third of the four VP qualification races, is Super Lord. I am told that he is currently stabled with trainer Cestmir Olehla at Svetla Hora, and if all goes will he will remain there until October. more ...
Sat Aug 22nd: the third qualifying race 19.08.2009
The meeting at Pardubice on Saturday features the Skanska Grand Prix, the third qualifying race for the Velka Pardubicka. The favourite will be Sixteen, VP winner in 2007 and 2008, which is already qualified. Mandarino was a good 2nd in the June qualifying race. Baggio and Numero Due are not yet qualified, but may well show that they are contenders for the VP on October 11th. more ...
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