Where The Turf Meets The Surf// Del Mar

“Where the turf meets the surf
Down at old Del Mar
Take a plane
Take a train
Take a car.
There is a smile on every face
And a winner in each race
Where the turf meets the surf
At Del Mar.” 

-Bing Crosby

Although the trek out to California was long and tiring, we “gained three hours” and I was able to sit oceanside, catch some rays and enjoy the simplicity of the beach.

The beach seriously cures a multitude of ills—I’ve know since day one that this ambassador position only lasts a year but it’s already almost September and the stress/fears of finding a new job have began to creep up on me. Luckily, a day at the beach helped me clear my head & helped me to refocus on what I want.

Solana Beach

Later that night I had to cheers to being in California with a Margarita, duh!

Early Wednesday morning we had an early morning TV interview on U-T TV.

& then we headed to see the track, FINALLY!

One of the best parts about the track is that the breeze; the weather is perfect!

We also got word that the jockey’s room makes the best breakfast burritos in California. They were some awesome burritos, I could have eaten one every morning!

Jose was obviously enjoying his burrito & Mexican coke.
{Rafael Bejarano is in the background looking over the card}

later that day the boys & I went back to the track to catch some races in our free time.

Later that night we headed out to Rancho Valencia for the $1,000,000 TVG Pacific Classic Post Position draw.

It’s Southern California’s premier luxury resort and man, oh man, was it STUNNING!

I didn’t finish filling out all of the Morning Line Odds before taking the picture, oops!

Thursday morning we had another TV interview {so fun), this time on Good Morning San Diego.

While setting up the ABRV for our segment I saw a familiar face walking out of the studio… I thought I could be wrong but we’re in Cali so ya never know who’ll you’ll bump into. I called over to the team to get someone else to verify —
I was right, IT WAS STEVE-O from Jackass.

Team ABRV with our new pal, Steve-O

Yes, it was his idea to take individual selfies with each of us.

We got to got to the NTRA Legislative Update after the races.

Later that night we caught this awesome sunset!

Friday’s races didn’t start until 4:00 so we were able to catch some rays {&waves} at the beach before heading to Del Mar to host our VIPs.

Saturday: Del Mar {and some other groups} were trying to break the record for the World’s Largest Instagram Meet. The event was 40s themed complete with old cars & burlesque dancers. Everyone was using the hashtag #HauteAsEver13 on their instagram pictures.

It was also a HUGE day in Saratoga. The Travers Stakes is referred to by many as the ‘Mid-summer Derby’ — I was excited to watch Orb {Kentucky Derby 2013 winner}, Verrazano {Haskell 2013} & Palice Malice {Belmont Stakes 2013} go up against each other again.

To many people’s surprise Will Take Charge went on to win the Traver’s followed by Moreno & Orb.]

Back to the instameet; look how awesome some of the people looked!

Later that day a few of us went up to the press box to catch one of the last races.
How awesome is this view from the press box?!

 
AHHMAZING!

Sunday // Pacific Classic Day!

Although it was on TV, it was awesome to watch Royal Delta & Hall of Fame jockey Mike Smith’s impressive win in the Personal Ensign at Saratoga!

 
Inside the paddock & view of some fans from inside the paddock.

Even ‘Pony Boy’ was sportin’ some new ABR gear 😉

Game On Dude romped in the Pacific Classic with an 8 1/2-length lead with jockey Martin Garcia. While he looked like he was the best, I was skeptical since he didn’t seem to like the poly. I was rooting for Kettle Corn (who came in 3rd).

Cool side note about Game On Dude — He’s owned by a group that includes Joe Torree, former manager of the New York Yankees.

Game On Dude just after crossing the finish line.

What a wonderful trip to California. We made so many new fans & friends. Looking forward to finally being back in Lexington in my apartment for the next few weeks before we head back out West to visit Santa Anita {near LA} for the Awesome Again Stakes.

**Also, my sister Lexi moved into her college dorm this week and started classes — ahh, now I’m feeling old.

AS ALWAYS:  Follow us on social media for the latest & greatest. You know you want to.

Like us on facebook ABRV Tour & America’s Best Racing

Follow & tweet us at @ABRVTour & @ABRlive

Use the hashtags #AmericasBestRacing & #AmericasBestFashion
on Instagram (they feed into our website)

 & check out our saweeetttt website that is updated with new blogs and videos on the reg FollowHorseRacing.com

The August Place To Be // Saratoga Springs, NY

Finally, the trip I look forward to every year: TOGA!

This year they are celebrating 150 years of racing —- I love knowing that it is the oldest US racetrack and often considered to be the oldest sporting venue in the entire country.

I knew this time around was going to be a bit different since I was working & not vacationing with my family, but I was super happy that my family could come up the same two weeks as me. {hanging out with them on my down days was super wonderful}. My “downtime” from work was spent at the track and with my family — this post is a condensed, picture blog of two wonderful weeks at The SPA.

We arrived at THE SPA Monday afternoon and after bringing my suitcases up to my room (in an awesome house we had on the corner of Caroline St & Circular), we headed to the track — almost immediately I found my dad & sisters 🙂

babes

lexaconna

So I know I’m probably 1/1,000 people that enjoy the taste of The Big Red Spring but I do, I’ve been drinking from it since I can remember & love the taste. When I got there on Monday it wasn’t ‘springing’ and man was I upset! Luckily, they quickly fixed the problem & I got to drink my favorite spring water for the rest of my trip.

Later that night, I went downtown {Caroline St.} with some of the other BA’s (& other people that we know that were in town) to celebrate our first night in Toga.

Let’s just say: Thirteen always leads to an interesting time
{some of the best, most hilarious stories}

Tuesdays are ‘dark days’ meaning that there is no racing — I got to spend the day with my dad & sisters {plus, my aunt and cousin came up from Long Island}. We had an awesome day out at Moreau Lake State Park and then headed into town to grab dinner & walk around the park. I love spending time with my family–they’re weird, crazy, goofy and oh so loving 🙂

Garofalo gals

Of course I bought a new Saratoga sweatshirt and had to get a chai latte from Uncommon Grounds

Wednesday was spent at the track!

After all of the races were over Dad, the girls, Aunt Cindy & Taylor went into the Winner’s Circle and on the finish line and sprinkled Grampy’s ashes.

Lexi put it best in words “Today we sprinkled horse racing’s biggest fan, Grampy, on one of his favorite tracks in Saratoga Springs NY. He is now on the finish line and in the winner’s circle!! He was the kindest funniest person. Always cracking jokes to random strangers and helping Everyone he encountered. The most valuable lesson he taught me was to never look at anyone as if they were above or below me despite their outer appearance or how big their wallet was. Your four pineapple heads miss you soooo much. See you every summer in Saratoga!!”

He’ll forever my guardian angel & I’ll forever be his pineapple head ❤

Later that night I went to dinner at Boca with the fam {the bacon wrapped dates changed my life—to die for} before heading out to the bars to do some promoting.

The next day I finally got me an almond croissant and iced chai at Mrs. London’s with my gal pal Hal.

This is a MUST EAT, the croissants are the bomb diggity!

Thursday night we “activated” at The Parting Glass, Saratoga’s original Irish pub, & my goofball sisters (& dad) finally got to come see the bus.

On Friday, ABR hosted VIPs at the Carousel Restaurant for a day at the races. I don’t think seeing new fans ‘getting into the game’ will ever get old, it’s awesome.

Here are some of the blogs they wrote about their experience:
Saratoga 150 by Stephanie Koval
A Day At The Races by Adriana Costa
Day Trip to the Saratoga 150 by Kimberly Mufferi

Christine A. Moore Millinery gave the entire ambassador team hats {& fascinators}. Now we can amp up our fashion game on race days — how sweet of her!

After the races I headed downtown to catch the Floral Fete Promenade — the 150th Sesquicentennial parade that was happening downtown on Broadway. All of the floats and carriages were made with beautiful fresh flowers and all of the people were dressed in period attire. Such beautiful flowers and greenery, awesome vintage cars, baby carriages, wagons and more.

Mommy finally got to Saratoga on Friday after two weeks on one of her Medieval trips & I found her after the parade.

GOD, I love these people. BEST FAM EVER.

Nearby, one of the floats broke down and the wonderful couple decided to give away all of the beautiful fresh flowers to passerbys.

Saturday was a special day // It was officially 150 years since the first race was run at Saratoga.

If you’re anything like me & love history, read more about the
history of Saratoga Race Course here.

Stunning Lady Di

los ponies

My adorable pals in their new hats

A few of us were lucky enough to watch the Whitney from one of the boxes close to the finish line —

Hallie, Fern, me & Claire.

This is one of my very favorite Bed & Breakfasts in Saratoga,
the beautiful Union Gables

I spend Saturday night surround my family and some of our best friends enjoying a wonderful dinner at Longfellows.

There are very few places where I would rather spend my Sunday than at the track in the early afternoon, followed by a spectacular day of polo at night. Lucky for me, that is EXACTLY how I spent my first Sunday Funday in Toga.

Pure Bliss.

The Whitney Polo Fields are magnificent, I love going out for the matches {and I love stompin’ the divots}.

Mary Lou Whitney & Susan Lucci
surrounded by some of the polo players

Before I knew it, we had already been in Toga for a week. I “stayed in” Monday day and got lots of work done. Later that night, we headed over to Fasig-Tipton for their 2013 Saratoga sale. Two horses went for over $1 Million dollars, the most expensive, a filly (young, female horse) went for $1,225,000!

Hip #33 in the sales ring                          All of the ladies at the sale that night

As Monday ritual– we went back to Thirteen {since Tuesday is a dark day lots of the jockeys go out too, so it’s fun to see them all outside of the track atmosphere}.

Tuesday rolled around and once again and I spent the day at the stunning Moreau Lake State Park with my family & some of our wonderful family friends {we’ve both come to Saratoga for vacation for the past 12+ years at the same time — loveee it}

Picture perfect & without a filter!

We all got some super exiciting news while we were up in Saratoga:

FOX Sports Announces Multi-Year Partnership with The Jockey Club// FOX Sports 1 Features Top Thoroughbred Races in Newly Created Series

I can’t wait to watch the Grade 1 Donn Handicap & the Grade 1 Gulfstream Park Turf Handicap air on Sunday, February 9, 2014, from Gulfstream Park.

Wednesday I spent most of the day at the track with poppa Joe. I love spending time at the track with him because we both love it so much. We finally hit a Daily Double and some exactas!

love this man

Later, after the races that night we went to RTCANY Basketball Game — jockeys vs. trainers (& a few industry people)//super funny to watch and what a fun time.

Lucky me got to see my family one last time before they all head back to Georgia. I cannot believe baby Ani is 16 and heading into her Junior year of high school & Lexi is about to go off to college, ahhhh time flies.

Last night with my gals at Uncommon Grounds

Early Thursday morning Chip & I were interviewed on “Racing Across America” and then headed over to see Wise Dan schooling in the paddock in preparation for the Fourstardave.

Horse of the year, Wise Dan, schooling
in the paddock 

Friday was full of horses, computer work, rain and ABR promoting!

Saturday was Fourstardave Day!

We hosted another group of VIPs at the track. They were all so wonderful 🙂

Check out their blogs:
Saturday at Saratoga by Krista Robertson
Backyard Entertainment: Saratoga Race Course by Emily Connor
At The Races by Jessica Shia
#AmericasBestRacing by Ciara Austin

Sunday we attended the Jockey Club Round Table Conference.

It was so wonderful to show off the bus and all of our efforts to everyone, especially these people who have been so supportive of our initiative. It was an honor to take part in the meeting and really made me super excited about the future of horse racing.

Afterwards, we grabbed lunch, went out to the track, watched a few races and then I went over to the Whitney Polo Fields with Hallie, Karina, Jose & Slouse to enjoy a beautiful Sunday match.

After polo we headed downtown for some EPIC Hattie’s fried chicken and did some shopping. This was followed by some late night porch sittin’ and talking. It was a wonderful last night in my favorite place with wonderful people.

For my last morning in Toga I took a stroll downtown on Broadway & headed over to Uncommon Grounds {one last time} to get a bagel and Italian soda for breakfast —-before we hopped back on the ABRV and headed to Chicago.

Broadway Eating breakfast on the porch

To top all that off, my last week in Saratoga was super emotional: my sweet pup, Lassie, had to be put down 😦 he had a wonderful life & I’m glad that he’s not in pain anymore, but losing a family pet isn’t easy 😦

Despite that sad news: my best friend Bridget & her hubs finally announced that they are expecting — Baby Caldwell is expected to arrive February 24th {my momma’s birthday}! and one of my Zeta littles, Lizzy, is engaged. I’m so happy for them all 🙂

NEXT STOP: Chicago//The Windy City//Chi-Town for the Arlington Million

AS ALWAYS:  Follow us on social media for the latest & greatest. You know you want to.

Like us on facebook ABRV Tour & America’s Best Racing

Follow & tweet us at @ABRVTour & @ABRlive

Use the hashtags #AmericasBestRacing & #AmericasBestFashion
on Instagram (they feed into our website)

 & check out our saweeetttt website that is updated with new blogs and videos on the reg FollowHorseRacing.com

America’s Best Racing: Look How Far We’ve Come

Written by: Team ABRV

Photo by Scott Serio/Eclipse Sportswire

Before America’s Best Racing (ABR) was created The Jockey Club reached out to McKinsey, an American global management consulting firm, for their help determining how best to grow and sustain the Thoroughbred Industry.

 McKinsey research concluded that “only 3% of racing fans are new to the sport in the last 12 months,” “just 46% of current fans would recommend their friends follow thoroughbred racing,” and it was estimated that “the average age will increase by 6 years by 2020.” While the big events [Kentucky Derby, Belmont Stakes, Preakness, Breeders’ Cup] have been resilient, other horse racing events across the country are struggling.

The goal of ABR is to increase the profile and visibility of Thoroughbred racing’s biggest events. The Jockey Club assembled a team of passionate horse racing ambassadors to promote the sport around the country and engage a new, young audience. Through social media, nationwide exposure and one-on-one interactions we’ve been able to create lasting impressions and quality relationships that have already begun to impact the sport and improve these statistics. We have been featured in various print and online publications: The Baltimore Sun, Bleacher Report, ESPN.com, Forbes.com, Huffington Post, Lexington Herald-Leader, Louisville.com, The New York Times and several other racing and mainstream publications. 

No one said that it was going to be easy, but we couldn’t imagine having any other job this year. Being on the forefront of America’s best racing (literally) we get to celebrate tradition every day, share our passion and help rejuvenate the industry. As ambassadors and lifelong fans, we love connecting our fellow millennials to a sport that has a rich, storied history and a bright present and future.

 People we’ve met throughout the tour have been exceptionally responsive, supportive and eager to learn more.  Since our kick-off in March at South By Southwest in Austin, Texas to our current two week stretch in Saratoga Springs, NY we’ve made millions of new impressions through our website, FollowHorseRacing.com, social media platforms, purchased media, contests and face-to-face interactions. We’ve given away over 500 hats, 2,000 t-shirts, 4,000 jockey goggles, 8,000 koozies and collected over 20,000 emails to help us keep in touch with the fans that we encountered. All of our giveaways have been popular but the jockey goggles are by far “the chalk.”

Between our three-part market approach (research, partnership and activation) we’ve initiated, created and maintained hundreds of relationships through various small and large group interactions.  In just the Triple Crown season we’ve involved more people in the sport and already gained many new lifelong fans with this grassroots effort.

Throughout season one, interactions included: stopping at high traffic locations with the ABRV (our 45-foot streamliner bus stocked with flat-screen televisions, iPads and more), hosting local young influencers for VIP luncheons at the tracks all while continuing to build our social media followings and drive traffic to the website.

As we continue our journey, we’re constantly altering our approach to meet the specific needs of each individual market. Since each market is unique we’ve learned to adapt accordingly in order to leave the highest possible impression on each new fan we meet.

While the physical appeal of the bus still attracts plenty of fans, we’ve found that informally approaching our target demographic around the track yields greater social media interaction; it allows us to get to know them better before we begin to tell them our story as it most relates to them.

 This is just the beginning of season two’s road to the Breeders’ Cup, but the best is yet to come. Team ABRV hopes to see you on the road.

 

AS ALWAYS:  Follow us on social media for the latest & greatest. You know you want to.

Like us on facebook ABRV Tour & America’s Best Racing

Follow & tweet us at @ABRVTour & @ABRlive

Use the hashtags #AmericasBestRacing & #AmericasBestFashion 
on Instagram (they feed into our website)

 & check out our saweeetttt website that is updated with new blogs and videos on the reg FollowHorseRacing.com

Born To Run // The War At The Shore

So I seriously cannot believe Season Two is already here — this year is FLYING by!

“I pulled up to the shore & muh colors different!” said the ABRV

The ABRV was sporting some new colors when it arrived in Jersey {purple and gold} for the Breeders’ Cup

Wednesday was the most low-key day of the trip & that’s good because we’re out on the road for the next five weeks promoting THE Sport of Kings & Queens.

We went to Max’s Famous Hot Dogs

Fernsie reppin my headband and his new bro tank

After getting the ABRV some exposure on the busy road, we took a short pit-stop and enjoyed a little bit of beach action. I could have stayed in the ocean for days, weeks even. I absolutely love the water, I see it as the one place where you are “one with the world,” it’s peaceful, relaxing and just downright awesome!

BEACH

That night we went by Pier Villages — a bunch of different boutiques, shops, restaurants, bars, and other little stores and located right on the beach in Long Branch, NJ.

We even got to be at the shore JERSDAY how perfect! {For all you non Jersey Shore TV watchers out there, that refers to Thursday}

We headed over to Monmouth for the Haskell Post Position Draw

1. VYJACK
2. PICK OF THE LITTER
3. GOLDEN SOUL
4. POWER BROKER
5. OXBOW
6. MICROMANAGE
7. VERRAZANO

We kept hearing so many great things about the burgers at Bobby’s Burger Palace {yes, that’s Bobby as in Bobby Flay} so we had to check it out for dinner. Plus, since Flay is a horse owner and enthusiast we had to bring the bus out there to get some pictures!

Needless to say, the burgers and fries were all amazeballs. I opted for the Dallas Burger {Spice Crusted/Coleslaw/Monterey Jack/BBQ Sauce/Pickle} and Sweet Potato Fries with a delicious honey mustard horseradish sauce {I also made it a point to try the regular fries and onion rings as well as the four different sauces on the table} & enjoyed every bite — it was hands down the best cooked burger I’ve ever had {juicy and flavorful}

I’m sure we could have all gone to sleep from being happily full but being the best ambassadors that we are, we headed to some more of the local Longbranch bars and promoted the Haskell & ABR.

I fist pumped at the shore with a nice hair
poof that you can hardly see; judge me if you dare

FRIDAY I was super happy to finally watch some racing at Monmouth!

After the races we formed a team at the ‘Joes Vs. Jockeys Mini Golf Festival and Tournament’ and played us some putt putt! The course was awesome — every hole was named after a different horse and had some historical tidbits about them!

We came in second place, YESSSS!

Saturday we hosted a wonderful group of VIPs at the track

Sunday //WAR AT THE SHORE // Haskell day

Such an awesome sandcastle

Haskell day was crazy busy, it was so great to see so many young faces out at the track dressed up, tailgating, enjoying the races and having such a great time.

Hangin’ in the paddock with my best gal pals

Man oh man, VERRAZANO {the even money favorite} was a beast — he is one amazing {and beautiful} horse &, as always, Johhny V proved to be THE MAN! The rest of the field struggled to keep with with VERRAZANO on the turn, the rest is Grade 1 history.

NEXT STOP: Saratoga Springs, NY

AS ALWAYS:  Follow us on social media for the latest & greatest. You know you want to.

Like us on facebook ABRV Tour & America’s Best Racing

Follow & tweet us at @ABRVTour & @ABRlive

Use the hashtags #AmericasBestRacing & #AmericasBestFashion
on Instagram (they feed into our website)

 & check out our saweeetttt website that is updated with new blogs and videos on the reg FollowHorseRacing.com

We’re in the gate & ready to giddy up for ABRV’s second season

So I watched some racing videos and may have drank an extra large cup of coffee this morning, but I cannot contain my excitement for what’s gearing up to be a splendid season two for Team ABRV. The road to the Kentucky Derby and Triple Crown were awesome but as the Breeders’ Cup slogan goes  I truly believe “The Best is Yet to Come.”

Don’t believe me? Just watch.

ABRV’s season two is just about ready to roll out on the
Road to the Breeders’ Cup [BC for short].

We’ll be hitting some awesome tracks and races leading up to what the BC likes to call ‘ a $27 million extravaganza’ and I cannot wait.

We get to go to 5 tracks, 4 of which I’ve never been to!

Lucky for me, I get to go to my favorite place on earth for not one but TWO weeks to promote the great sport. HELLOOOO Saratoga Springs 🙂 The only weird thing will be the fact that this is going to be the first year since I can remember that I’ll be missing opening weekend at the SPA, but I will be there for the 150th {sesquicentennial} celebration. & if you know me, you know that I love me some splendid history! [thank you mom & dad].

Now that we’re all pumped for the Breeders’ Cup & Saratoga {toga, toga, toga} let’s backup a little —-

Our first stop, which is in less than two weeks is the Haskell Invitational (July 28th) at Monmouth Park in Oceanport, NJ — near the “Jersey Shore” [insert first pump here]. It’s a Grade 1, 1⅛ miles (9 furlongs) race for invited 3-year-olds. *One of my favorite horses, Rachel Alexandra won it back in 2009.

Next, we’ll head to Saratoga for the Whitney Inviational Handicap (August 3rd), FourStarDave Handicap (August 10th) & Saratoga Special (August 11th).The Whitney Stakes, as some call, it is a Grade 1 race, 1⅛ miles (9 furlongs) race and part of the BC’s ‘Win and You’re In” series [this means the winner will automatically be qualified to run in the Breeders’ Cup Classic]. Some of the greatest horses have gone on to win the Whitney. Both Kelso and Discovery won it three times each! The FourStarDave, named after the horse FourStarDave aka “The Sultan of Saratoga” {From 1987-1994 he won at LEAST one race at the SPA}. The FourStarDave is a Grade 2, 1 mile (8 furlong), turf (grass) race—Wise Dan & Johnny V won it last year! Our last Saratoga race, the Saratoga Special is a Grade 2, 6 1/2 furlong dirt race.

Then, we’ll boogey on down to good ole’ Chi-town (Arlington Heights, IL to be exact) for the Arlington Million. The Million is a Grade 1, 1 ¼ mile turf race for 3-year-olds & up and was the first Thoroughbred race to have a million dollar purse {1981}! The winner of the Million qualifies BC Turf. Another one of my favorites, John Henry holds the record with two Arlington Million wins.

Our last stop on our 5 week trip is when we head west to Cal-a-forn-i-a & visit Del Mar —where they say the surf meets the turf, for the Pacific Classic. It’s a $1,000,000, 1 ¼ mile race on the poly {a type of synthetic track}. Back in 2003 Julie Krone (Hall of Fame female jockey) rode Candy Ride to victory [also making a new track record at the time] and became the first female to win a million dollar race, go baby go!

After our 5 week extravaganza we’ll have a few weeks back at “home” in Lexington and then late September head back out west to Arcadia, CA for the Awesome Again Stakes at Santa Anita Park — a Grade 1, 1⅛ miles (9 furlongs) race for 3-year-olds and up!

Less than a week after the Awesome Again, KEENELAND opens up again for their Fall meet — hip, hip, hoorayy!

Crazy as it seems, our last trip will be late October through early November when we’ll head back out west to Santa Anita to experience the awesomeness that is
THE Breeders’ Cup!

Hope you’re all as excited as I am. Be sure to follow us to stay up to date on our whereabouts and all things racing. #GetInTheGame

Yes, all of the logos are linked to their tracks 😉

AS ALWAYS:  Follow us on social media for the latest & greatest. You know you want to.

Like us on facebook ABRV Tour & America’s Best Racing

Follow & tweet us at @ABRVTour & @ABRlive

Use the hashtags #AmericasBestRacing & #AmericasBestFashion
on Instagram (they feed into our website)

 & check out our saweeetttt website that is updated with new blogs and videos on the reg FollowHorseRacing.com

New York, New Yorrrkkkk

We arrived in the BIG APPLE on Tuesday of Belmont Stakes week. Luckily it was late so we didn’t have any work plans and I was able to see my beautiful cousin Taylor for dinner.

Of course, being the “centaurs” that we are we had to check out the Triple Crown diner. After all—the Belmont is the third and final leg of the Triple Crown!

AND I love a good NY diner meal,
especially when it’s accompanied by a chocolate eggcream.

Wednesday we got to the track early to watch some of the horses work out.

winner’s circle

I love being there before the crowds and being able to take everything in.

Look at that view, isn’t it spectacular?!

Around 11 we headed into the Belmont Stakes Post Position Draw and got to see what post each horse would be coming out of for the Belmont Stakes!

Then we hopped on the LIRR and headed into NYC to get ready for a happy hour event we hosted with Buffalo Trace at Public House (a really cool place on E 41st).

We got into the city with a little time to kill so being the giddy school girl that I am when I’m in NY we walked by some of my FAVORITE touristy places (NY Public Library, Grand Central Station & Times Square). Hallie, John & Jose had never been to NYC before this trip so I was even more excited to go by these places and show them why I love New York–with that being said, I was by far the most excited. There is just something special about New York that puts an extra pep in my step!

A few of my friends got to come to our Public House happy hour event which made me super happy!Gabrielle (who I’ve known since before I was born), Roma & Lauren (who I worked with at LIVE! with Regis & Kelly summer of 2010). So glad they could come learn about ABR and see a little more into why I love racing! 

 Gabb & Romes stayed after the event was over we we could catch up 🙂 

   

Thursday morning we had our Social Media lunch and a special backside tour with former jockey Richard Migliore. We got to get a more inside look over at trainer Kieran Mclaughlin’s barn.

    
okay, so I was excited to be on a tram–it reminded me of my Disney days, ha.

After a wonderful tour and lunch we headed into the city yet again-yay! This time we were hosting a happy hour with Buffalo Trace at the Ainsworth (W. 46th Street).

While the rest of the team was at the Ainsworth event, Chip & I attended the 2013 Belmont Stakes Charity Celebration at Bobby Flay’s Bar Americain restaurant that benefited the Grayson-Jockey Club Research Foundation and the Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation (TRF).

The foodie in my was extremely excited to be there, just as excited I was to be supporting such wonderful charities in our industry. The food was so delicious, i loved it all, but my top three would have to be  cheeseburgers with queso sauce, the shrimp-tomatillo cocktail & the lobster-avocado cocktail. He also made lobster shooters, gulf shrimp & grits, spicy tuna tartare AND wayyy more. [ i’m hungry just thinking about all the foods].

Bobby Flay

After recieving the Earle I. Mack Thoroughbred Champion Award for his outstanding efforts and influence on Thoroughbred racehorse welfare, safety and retirement he gave such an awesome speech. He spoke about how every owner should be responsible for the aftercare of their Thoroughbred & I wanted to scream hallelujah and amen afterwards it was so wonderful.

We were gifted with Bobby Flay’s Bar Americain Cookbook — this has ALL of the delicious recipes that we got to try plus he signed it and added a special note thanking us for being a part of the night.

      

With only three SHORT hours of sleep, I awoke in my NYC hotel room Friday morning only to open the curtains and see torrential rain. Despite the rain, we headed over toe Rockefeller Center to promote ABR & the Belmont Stakes.

We stood in the rain but it paid off when John got a shout-out from Al Roker and then Hallie, Jose & Mary France were shown on the Today show broadcast numerous times holding up a FollowHorseRacing.com banner.

After changing clothes a total of three times we grabbed some lunch — i FINALLY got my NY pizza, or as I like to call it, a few slices of heaven.

After the za we headed back to Long Island to go stock the bus for Saturday and to park it at Belmont. Shopping in the pouring down rain — wearing flip-flops and a water-resistant jacket (not a waterPROOF one) was quite the experience. Luckily, John was a good sport AND I got myself a 7-11 Slurpee, they always seem to make things a little better, right?!

While we waited to get the bus parked in it’s spot for Saturday, John, Chip & I watched a few races.

Once the bus was set we headed back to the hotel, changed and headed to the Garden City hotel to stop at the NYRA press party before calling it a night. {i just found out this is where my parents first met–dawww}

Saturday, June 8 was finally Belmont Stakes Day.

I loved being at Belmont — now that I’m an ambassador going back to Belmont was quite sentimental–it was the first track I had ever attended and sparked my initial love for all things horse racing. It also made me miss my late Grampy, but I know he would be so proud of what I’m doing 🙂

Since we had a meeting Monday afternoon with The Jockey Club we had a “free day” in NYC Sunday. Our free day consisted of brunch, lots of walking around and sightseeing and then Hallie & I grabbed dinner at Rockefeller Center’s restaurant–so yummy.

As always,  it was bittersweet to leave NYC. I can’t wait to be back for Saratoga in late July & to be close-by in NJ for the Haskell mid-July.

Also, if ya want to check out my post on our website about the Belmont Jewel, the official drink of the Triple Crown’s third leg click on: http://www.followhorseracing.com/en/the-latest/abrv/2013/6/2/the-official-drink-of-the-belmont-stakes/

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Get Your Preak On

What a week it was in Baltimore, MD.

After arriving late Tuesday night we grabbed some yummy food in Federal Hill and then headed back to the hotel to get some much needed rest in preparation for the week ahead.

Wednesday morning we met a group of social media people {our chosen movers and shakers of Baltimore} for a tour of the beautiful, historic Sagamore Farm followed by a delicious lunch at The Oregon Grille.

Photo courtesy of Eclipse Sportswire

This is my new friend Nest Of Pirates out at Sagamore

After lunch Team ABRV headed to Pimlico for the Preakness Stakes post position draw. They had such awesome food {lots of seafood, sushi, CRAB CAKES & more}
I also tried my first Black Eyed Susan–the official drink of the Preakness & it while it wasn’t what I expected, it wasn’t half bad.

Just us girls being silly!

Winner’s circle

Here’s the final post positions for the 138th Preakness Stakes

1.ORB 2. GOLDENCENTS 3.TITLETOWN FIVE 4.DEPARTING 5.MYLUTE 6.OXBOW 7.WILL TAKE CHARGE 8. GOVENOR CHARLIE 9. ITSMYLUCKYDAY

Preakness trophy

 Winner’s circle

After the draw the team headed to Fell’s Point to activate the bus and engage some new fans.

The bus parked in Fell’s Point

I even met the sweetest old man & his wife who come down to the harbor whenever the sky is clear and bring their telescope and show people the moon, planets & stars.

new bffs

How adorable!

Thursday started off early when we attended the Alibi Breakfast at Pimlico.

Then we went to Under Armour headquarters and shared ABR with all of the Under Armour employees. We even hired a snow cone truck to come & yes i had FIVE snow cones!

Awesome view from UA headquarters

“WE WILL PROTECT THIS BUS” is our new slogan, haha

Chattin’ with some of the UA employees about
the jockey goggles & all things Preakness

Next we parked the bus in the infield and headed over to  M & T Stadium {home of the 2013 Super Bowl champs, The Ravens} for a Pre-game to the Preakness party.

How awesome is this?!

friends!

It was so cool to be out of the field, especially on such a beautiful night.

Finally it was Friday, Black Eyed Susan day & the ABRV was parked in the infield!

Infield entrance

Turfside terrace

View of the track from up in the Press Box

The Black-Eyed Susan is basically the Preakness’ equivalent of the Derby’s Oaks Day—it’s in support of Susan G. Komen and the big race is worth $500,000 in purse money and for 3-year old fillies.

Lovin’ the pink in the turfside terrace!

Fiftyshadesofhay was the winner of the Black Eyed Susan!

Watching the Black-Eyed Susan from the turf on the infield

One of the coolest things about the Preakness infield fest is that there are two stages that play music.

Friday’s performances were after the races and included: Rachel Farley, Rodney Atkins & The Goo Goo Dolls.

Rodney Atkins

The Goo Goos dolls closed out the night with some awesome tunes and we got to be front row! SO MUCH FUN!!

Then it was Saturday, the day we all waited for– THE PREAKNESS, time for everyone to #GetYourPreakOn {yes, the is the slogan for the day/week}

Here’s our ABR LIVE: Preakness Edition –definitely our funnest video yet!

The Preakness Barn where all of the Preakness horses stayed

Our morning started off early–the infield opened at 8:00 and by 10:00 we had given out almost all of our SWAG–once again people were OBSESSED with the jockey goggles, koozies, hats & t-shirts.

Jose got this shot of people swarming the bus Saturday
morning when I was passing out SWAG.

Michelle Beadle {girl crush alert} from Access Hollywood and The Crossover on NBCSN even came by to check out the ABRV. She was super cool and is totally someone that the  industry needs–this is her first year covering these events so it’s great for her viewers because it’s something that they can all experience together.

& of course, we had to get a team picture!

The music acts actually played on two different stages and throughout the day on Saturday. It was a great lineup. On the main stage was: Afrojack, Macklemore & Ryan Lewis and Pitbull. & on the Jaegermeister stage was: Kristen and the Noise, Chevelle & Florida-Georgia Line.

I was able to catch some of the main stage acts while we were out and about getting some footage.

Afrojack

John and I also got to meet Macklemore & Ryan Lewis during a meet & greet {we’re waiting on the Preakness photographer to upload them since we weren’t allowed to use our own phones} and after Macklemore complimented John on the jockey goggles around their neck we gave them their own ABR SWAG

{t-shirts, koozies & goggles} so hopefully one day we catch them wearing em.

When it was finally time for the 138th running of the Preakness Jose, Hallie, John and I walked over to claim our spots to watch history.

Our view 

We even spotted some celebs near us & Gene Simmons {yes, of KISS} almost ran me over as he was walking backwards–oops!

Kevin Spacey

Team ABRV was pulling for ORB but unfortunately he didn’t run the same race he did Derby day and ended up coming in 4th place to Oxbox, Itsmyluckyday & Mylute.

Look at this cute Pick-4

One of the cool things about Oxbow winning was that his jockey, Gary Stevens, was the oldest jockey {50 years old} & he just came back this year from retirement!

We wrapped up the night at the track at the Preakness Stakes barn party-thingy!

Sam the bugler

& then a few of us headed down to the harbor to have some dinner — i just had to have ONE MORE crab cake!!!

Just chillin’ in a fountain after dinner

It was a wonderful pack-full week in Baltimore filled with some of my favorite things: horses, friends & crab cakes!

Also, before we headed to Baltimore I was able to chat with one of the city’s best chef’s and she gave me her recipe for crab cakes that she uses in her restaurant–check out my post on the key to a perfect crab cake: http://www.followhorseracing.com/en/the-latest/abrv/2013/5/13/the-key-to-a-perfect-crab-cake/

AS ALWAYS:  Follow us on social media for the latest & greatest. You know you want to.

Like us on facebook ABRV Tour & America’s Best Racing

Follow & tweet us at @ABRVTour & @ABRlive

Use the hashtags #AmericasBestRacing & #AmericasBestFashion
on Instagram (they feed into our website)

 & check out our saweeetttt website that is updated with new blogs and videos on the reg FollowHorseRacing.com