A short meeting in the office...

Recent conversation between Otsego Farms owner Jim Webber and his head trainer:

JW: So tell me about our Derby possibilities.

HT: Best chance we've had in years...

JW: Helikaon and Rico?

HT: Yup.

JW: What are the chances they both get in?

HT: I'd say pretty good... as long as we schedule them right.

JW: Which means?

HT: Never head-to-head until May.

JW: Tell me about Helikaon.

HT: He's his fathers son.  Incredible speed/stamina combination.  He'll be a force at 10 furlongs.

JW: And Rico Suave?

HT: Totally different.  He's all about stamina.

JW: Can he make 16?

HT: Not now.  We need to strengthen his finishing kick a bit more.  He's getting stronger though.

JW: If they went head-to-head at the Kentucky Derby?

HT: Tough call.  If it's soft, Helikaon.  In the mud, Rico.

JW: On a fast track?

HT: You're putting me on the spot Boss...

JW: It's what I do.

HT: Depends on the trip...

JW: Clean.

HT: <laughs> OK, I guess I'm not gonna be able to slip outta this one, huh?

JW: Not a chance.

HT: I'd go with Helikaon.  He's faster and has plenty of stamina.  

JW: Get them both to the Derby and I'll give you a $250,000 bonus.  If one of them wins, I'll make it $500,000...

HT: I'm on it.

JW: Thanks.  

JW: <to secretary> Celeste, what time is it in Australia right now?

C: It's a little after 11:00 AM

JW: See if you can get Fin on the phone, will ya?  <to himself as he heads back to his desk> I gotta see if he's thinking Ballotelli has a chance in Kentucky...