Horse Activities in the Spring in Kentucky Tend to Center Around Events Before and After the Kentucky Derby in Louisville

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In the weeks leading up to the 135^th edition of the Kentucky Derby, I spent a lot of time reading the hype about the major contenders, only to find out that the 50-to-1 long shot, Mine That Bird, would win the Derby. To me, it was a great example of a combination of perseverance, determination, boldness, and courage.

Dr. Leonard Blach, who is co-owner of the Birdstone gelding, is an old veterinary friend. Leonard has been involved in breeding horses for many decades. Leonard, like many Thoroughbred owners, began in the Quarter Horse business. At one time, he was associated with some of the greatest Quarter Horse racehorses. It was exciting to see him obtain such a phenomenal award when Mine That Bird triumphantly won the Derby. Obviously, it took a lot of courage and determination to transport Mine That Bird, via a trailer pulled by the trainer's pickup truck, from New Mexico to Churchill Downs so the horse could race under the infamous Twin Spires on the first Saturday in May.

However, even more astonishing was jockey Calvin Borel's boldness and courage to pilot Mine That Bird from last place in the field of 19 to win the first jewel of the American Triple Crown. Borel's courageous, unexpected move along the rail in the closing strides cemented Mine That Bird's place in history.

Although we cannot make a direct analogy with publishing articles, there are some similarities. I have appreciated many of the authors who have persevered through the entire process of getting an article accepted for publication in the Journal of Equine Veterinary Science. Many times, this takes several revisions before the manuscript is accepted by the reviewers and editor. Thus, again, authors demonstrate perseverance and determination.

I have discovered throughout my career that there is no good time to write a manuscript. The main ingredient needed is disciple and determination. Keep up the hard work.

Ed Squires

Editor, JEVS