People: Aaron Phillips
Place: ARS turf track
Date: February 5 2014 (March Week One)
Bulldozer
the giant powerhouse
Aaron couldn't believe it, Olio was entered in the Finish Cup Turf this weekend against two amazing grade one mares. His chances were slim to none of winning the race but that wasn't going to stop them from trying. "Alright ya bulldozer let's get moving." Aaron flipped the reins over the black beast's neck and motioned for his groom to help him. Olio was such a big horse that Aaron couldn't even use the mounting block on his own to get up on his back. Once Aaron was up and moving he felt on top of the world. Not only was Apollo Bear tall but he was built like a steam engine. He was by far the biggest horse on the entire farm - and the biggest horse Aaron has ever seen. Aaron gave Olio a fond pat, the stallion was also his favorite mount he has ever ridden. Win or lose Aaron always felt a breath of fresh air and calm when aboard the magnificent beast. He was excited to take the stallion up against top competition this weekend and enjoy the fast pace of the upcoming race.
They rode onto the track bright and early in the morning. Olio was the first mount of the day and Aaron raised his eyes to the sky. It was a little cloudy this morning, chances were that it would soon rain. Not a good sign for a good day of training. Aaron especially hated to run his juveniles in the rain. It was just too slippery and no one wants to have a horse break down at a young age. Once again he was happy to be aboard the big stallion. Olio was sure-footed and Aaron doubted a bit of rain would even faze him.
They moved through their warm ups as quickly as possible. Aaron gave a nod to the trainer at the rail. He knew what to do today. A nice five furlong gallop, not too fast as to practice Olio's staying power. Apollo Bear was normally a front runner in his races and it rode well with him since his stamina was incredible but on Saturday he would be racing against the sprinting mare Lynara's Kingdom who was used to setting a quick pace. If Olio were to stay with her throughout the race he could end up wearing both himself and Lynara's Kingdom out before the final furlong and then Bella Luna would have the easy win.
It was a tricky situation since Olio hated to be dominated and especially dominated by mares. He had major issues as a foal when his twin sister dominated over him and since being separated he does not accept any female dominance over him. The good news was that the race was 9 furlongs, perfect for Olio. Most of the time he took 9 furlongs wire to wire no problem. It might be a bit of a stretch for Lynara's Kingdom but it'll be perfect for Bella Luna. Aaron sighed. Only time will tell, anything can happen in a horse race.
He clucked his tongue and threw Olio into a racing gallop. A little drizzle was starting to fall upon them. Faster and faster they moved around the track. The rain doing nothing to slow him. Olio may not win the Finish Cup but he was going to give it his best shot