Photo by Skip Dickstein

And now for something just a bit different…..THE GREY WIZARD (IRE) made the trip to the New Jersey countryside for Saturday’s historic Far Hills Race Meeting. Billed as “New Jersey’s premier social and sporting event. For nearly a century, this annual gathering has attracted a large and loyal fan base who return, year after year, to watch the world’s finest steeplechases, reconnect with family and friends, network, support worthy causes and make memories to last a lifetime. Over the years, Far Hills Race Meeting has given more than $20 million to support local health-care organizations. With its newly introduced pari-mutuel wagering program, Far Hills Race Meeting—which boasts the largest purses in the industry—is bringing steeplechase racing to new audiences, locally, nationally and globally.”

Offered as the last race on the card was the $150,000 John Forbes Memorial Stakes. The Grey Wizard had Parker Hendriks aboard for the two-mile route on the grass. Parker, who occasionally rides out for Herringswell in the mornings, was the National Steeplechase Association’s Champion Jockey in 2022. He gave the 5-year-old son of Caravaggio – Fancy (IRE), by Galileo (IRE) a beautifully measured and brilliant ride, battling trainer Tom Morley’s determined Curbstone and Bernie Dalton down the stretch. The Grey Wizard’s ground-eating stride was on full display as he lowered his body, stretched out his neck and dug in to get to the wire first. There’s just not much better than watching these extraordinary equine athletes throw down and fight to the finish. All heart.

The Grey Wizard is another Herringswell horse with a large and loyal fan base, and we’re sure they enjoyed and celebrated his win today. Huge congrats to owners Eclipse Thoroughbred Partners and the Estate of Albert Frassetto!